Concealed automatic pool vacuum systems

ABSTRACT

A vacuum pool-cleaning storage system that is housed in the side of a swimming pool substantially below the waterline. The pool vacuum cleaner automatically deploys to clean the pool when the central pool vacuum pump is activated, and automatically retracts to a stored position when the central pool vacuum pump is turned off. The system is adapted to store the vacuum hose in a substantially linear tube located substantially underground. A reel-type hose storage embodiment is also disclosed. The system is preferably powered by vacuum pressure generated by a water circulation pump of the pool plumbing system.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation-in-part of related applicationSer. No. 11/001,557, filed Nov. 30, 2004, entitled “POOL CLEANINGSYSTEMS”, and is related to and claims priority from prior provisionalapplication Ser. No. 60/528,771 filed Dec. 12, 2003 entitled “SWIMMINGPOOL VACUUM AND HOSE AUTOMATIC DEPLOYMENT AND RETRIEVAL GARAGE”, and isfurther related to and claims priority from prior provisionalapplication Ser. No. 60/641,607 filed Jan. 6, 2005, entitled “SWIMMINGPOOL VACUUM HOSE AUTOMATIC DEPLOYMENT AND RETRIEVAL GARAGE WITH SEMISTRAIGHT HOSE STORAGE” the contents of which are incorporated herein bythis reference and are not admitted to be prior art with respect to thepresent invention by the mention in this cross-reference section.

BACKGROUND

This invention relates to providing pool-cleaning systems. Moreparticularly, this invention relates to providing a system for improvedstorage and deployment of pool vacuuming components.

Typically, a random-motion pool vacuum is coupled to a hose that iscoupled to the central pool vacuum pump. The pool vacuum pump and hoseare placed in the pool, primed for use, and must be removed from thepool and drained of water so that the pool can be used for swimming.This is very labor-intensive and time-consuming.

In addition, it is highly preferred to store the vacuum hose in anuncoiled rather than a coiled configuration. Storing the hose in anuncoiled configuration improves in-service performance by limiting hosehysteresis, which is the tendency of the hose to retain a coiled shapeonce deployed. Some manufacturers of pool cleaning heads specificallyvoid the operational warranty of the device if the vacuum hose is storedin a coiled configuration. Currently, uncoiled storage of a vacuum hoseis, at best, haphazard, requiring the hose to be stored within thegeneral area of the pool, for example, uncoiled on the surface of thepool deck or nearby landscape area.

Therefore, a need exists for a system that can deploy a pool vacuum andhose automatically, and retract the pool vacuum and hose automatically.Further, a need exists for a vacuum system that remains continuouslyprimed, preferably storing the hose in an uncoiled or semi-linearconfiguration.

OBJECTS AND FEATURES OF THE INVENTION

A primary object and feature of the present invention is to providepool-cleaning systems to overcome the above-described problems. Afurther primary object and feature of the present invention is toprovide a pool-cleaning system that automatically deploys a pool vacuum,and automatically retracts the pool vacuum.

It is a further object and feature of the present invention to providesuch a system that can be run entirely on waterpower provided by aconnection to the low-pressure side of a pool circulation pump. It isyet another object and feature of the present invention to provide sucha system that is stored underwater, to maintain the vacuum hose in aprimed (water-filled) state.

It is another object and feature of the present invention to providesuch a system that stores an underwater hose in an uncoiled andsubstantially linear arrangement. It is yet another object and featureof the present invention to provide such a system having an underwaterhose reel as an alternate preferred embodiment.

It is an additional object and feature of the present invention toprovide such a system including methods of cleaning pools.

A further primary object and feature of the present invention is toprovide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive, and handy. Otherobjects and features of this invention will become apparent withreference to the following descriptions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this inventionprovides a system related to the uncoiled storage of at least one vacuumhose of at least one automatic pool cleaner within at least one pool ofwater, the at least one vacuum hose comprising at least one first hoseend and at least one second hose end, the at least one pool of watercomprising at least one low-pressure fluid source, such systemcomprising: at least one tubular sleeve adapted to removably store atleast one substantial portion of the at least one vacuum hose; whereinsuch at least one tubular sleeve comprises at least one first open endin fluid communication with the at least one pool of water; and whereinsuch at least one tubular sleeve comprises an aggregate bend of lessthan three-hundred and sixty degrees.

Moreover, it provides such a system wherein: such at least one tubularsleeve comprises an aggregate bend of less than one hundred and eightydegrees; and such at least one tubular sleeve comprises no more than twoninety-degree bends. Additionally, it provides such a system wherein:such at least one tubular sleeve comprises at least one second open end;such at least one second open end is positioned above the at least onepool of water; and such at least one second open end comprises at leastone removable cover adapted to removably cover such at least one secondopen end.

Also, it provides such a system wherein such at least one tubular sleevecomprises at least one plurality of interconnectable segments adapted toprovide segmented assembly of such at least one tubular sleeve. Inaddition, it provides such a system wherein such at least one tubularsleeve is adapted to maintain the at least one substantial portion ofthe at least one vacuum hose submerged within water from such at leastone pool of water. And, it provides such a system further comprising atleast one fluid coupler adapted to couple the at least one second hoseend of the at least one vacuum hose to the at least one low-pressurefluid source.

Further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one fluidcoupler comprises: at least one vacuum hose end fitting adapted toremovably engage the at least one second hose end of the at least onevacuum hose; and at least one docking receiver adapted to removablyreceive such at least one vacuum hose end fitting; wherein such at leastone at least one docking receiver comprises at least one interiorchamber adapted to receive interiorly at least one portion of such atleast one vacuum hose end fitting and pass exteriorly the at least onevacuum hose; wherein such at least one vacuum hose end fitting comprisesat least one vacuum transfer port adapted to transfer fluid between theat least one vacuum hose and such at least one interior chamber; whereinsuch at least one interior chamber comprises at least one coupling tothe at least one low-pressure fluid source; wherein such at least oneinterior chamber comprises at least one pressure seal adapted to form atleast one pressure seal with such at least one vacuum transfer port; andwherein such at least one pressure seal is adapted to form at least onepressure coupling to couple operationally the at least one vacuum hosewith the at least one low-pressure fluid source.

Even further, it provides such a system further comprising: at least onehose deployer adapted to deploy the at least one first end of the atleast one vacuum hose into such at least one pool of water; at least onefluid coupler adapted to couple the at least one second end of the atleast one vacuum hose to the at least one low-pressure fluid source; andat least one hose retractor adapted to retract the at least one vacuumhose onto such at least one tubular sleeve; wherein such at least onetubular sleeve is adapted to maintain the at least one substantialportion of the at least one vacuum hose submerged within the water ofsuch at least one pool of water. Moreover, it provides such a systemwherein: such at least one hose deployer comprises at least onehydraulic motor adapted to power the deploying of the at least one firsthose end of the at least one vacuum hose by such at least one hosedeployer; such at least one hydraulic motor is in fluid communicationwith the at least one low-pressure fluid source; and such at least onehydraulic motor is adapted to operate by directing at least one movementof the water of the at least one pool of water toward the at least onelow-pressure fluid source.

Additionally, it provides such a system further comprising: at least onefirst housing adapted to house such at least one hose deployer, such atleast one fluid coupler, and such at least one hose retractor; and atleast one second housing comprising at least one hollow interior adaptedto house such at least one first housing; wherein such at least onefirst housing is removable from such at least one hollow interior ofsuch at least one second housing; and wherein such at least one secondhousing is prepositionally fixed relative to the at least one pool ofwater.

Also, it provides such a system wherein such at least one hollowinterior comprises: at least one first passage adapted to provide fluidcommunication between such at least one hollow interior and the at leastone pool of water; and at least one second passage adapted to providefluid communication between such at least one hollow interior and suchat least one tubular sleeve; wherein such at least one first passagecomprises at least one door adapted to provide at least one closable andopenable barrier between such at least one first passage and the leastone pool of water; and wherein such at least one door is positionedsubstantially below at least one waterline of such at least one pool ofwater. In addition, it provides such a system wherein: the at least onelow-pressure fluid source comprises at least one fluid circulation pumpadapted to circulate the water of such at least one pool of water; suchat least one hose deployer comprises at least one automatic hosedeployer adapted to automatically deploy the at least one vacuum hose onactivation of the at least one fluid circulation pump; and such at leastone hose retractor comprises at least one automatic hose retractoradapted to automatically retract the at least one vacuum hose ondeactivation of the at least one fluid circulation pump. And, itprovides such a system further comprising at least one automatic switchadapted to automatically switch the coupling of the at least onelow-pressure fluid source between such at least one hydraulic motor andsuch at least one fluid coupler.

Further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one automatichose retractor comprises at least one spring tensioner adapted totension at least one retractor spring during deployment of the at leastone vacuum hose by such at least one automatic hose deployer. Evenfurther, it provides such a system, further comprising: at least onehose deployment detector adapted to signal the detection of a completeddeployment of the at least one vacuum hose into the at least one pool ofwater; and at least one spring tension detector adapted to signal thedetection of the completed tensioning of such at least one retractorspring by such deployment of the at least one vacuum hose by such atleast one automatic hose deployer; wherein such at least one automaticswitch is adapted to maintain the coupling of the at least onelow-pressure fluid source to such at least one hydraulic motor in theabsence of such detection signals from either of such at least one hosedeployment detector and such at least one spring tension detector; andwherein such at least one automatic switch is adapted to switch thecoupling of the at least one low-pressure fluid source from such atleast one hydraulic motor to such at least one fluid coupler in thepresence of both such detection signals from such at least one hosedeployment detector and such at least one spring tension detector.

Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such detection signalscomprise at least one change in fluid pressure. Additionally, itprovides such a system wherein such at least one automatic switchcomprises at least one pressure operated actuator adapted to actuate atleast one fluid controlling valve. Also, it provides such a systemwherein such at least one hose deployer comprises: at least one driveassembly comprising at least one first hose-engaging wheel and at leastone second hose-engaging wheel each one adapted to physically engage theat least one vacuum hose; wherein, during such physical engagement, theat least one vacuum hose is movably deployed by rotation of such atleast one first hose-engaging wheel and such at least one secondhose-engaging wheel by such at least one hydraulic motor; and wherein,during such physical engagement, the at least one vacuum hose is movablyretracted by counter-rotation of such at least one first hose-engagingwheel and such at least one second hose-engaging wheel by such at leastone spring tensioner.

In addition, it provides such a system further comprising at least onelimited-slip coupler adapted to provide limited-slip decoupling of atleast one mechanical force transferred between such at least onehydraulic motor, such at least one spring tensioner, and such at leastone drive assembly. And, it provides such a system further comprisingsuch at least one vacuum hose. Further, it provides such a systemfurther comprising such at least one automatic pool cleaner. Evenfurther, it provides such a system further comprising: at least onewater level detector adapted to detect at least one low water levelcondition within the at least one pool of water; wherein such at leastone water level detector comprises at least one automatic retractioninitiator adapted to automatically initiate the retraction of the atleast one vacuum hose on such detection of such at least one low waterlevel condition within the at least one pool of water. Moreover, itprovides such a system wherein such at least one automatic retractioninitiator comprises at least one manual actuator adapted to providemanual actuation of such at least one automatic retraction initiator.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this inventionprovides a pool cleaning system, comprising the steps of: coupling atleast one submerged tubular sleeve to at least one body of water;placing at least one vacuum hose onto such at least one submergedtubular sleeve; deploying such at least one vacuum hose from such atleast one submerged tubular sleeve into such at least one body of water;and coupling such at least one vacuum hose to at least one vacuumsource. Additionally, it provides such a pool cleaning system,, whereinthe step of deploying such at least one vacuum hose from such at leastone submerged tubular sleeve into such at least one body of waterfurther comprises the step of using at least one hydraulic motor toinduce such deployment. Also, it provides such a pool cleaning system,further comprising the step of retracting such at least one vacuum hosefrom such at least one body of water into such at least one submergedtubular sleeve. In addition, it provides such a cleaning system,,wherein such the step of retracting such at least one vacuum hose fromsuch at least one body of water into such at least one submerged tubularsleeve further comprises the step of using at least one spring to inducesuch retraction. And, it provides such a cleaning system, furthercomprising the step of pulling at least one flow of water through suchat least one vacuum hose.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this inventionprovides a cleaning system, relating to the cleaning of at least onepool of water by at least one automatic vacuum, the at least one pool ofwater having at least one waterline, such system comprising: at leastone vacuum hose having at least one first end and at least one secondend; at least one vacuum pump, wherein such at least one vacuum pump isoperationally coupled to such at least one second end of such at leastone vacuum hose; at least one hose reel adapted to reel such at leastone vacuum hose; at least one hose deployer adapted to deploy such atleast one first end of such at least one vacuum hose into such at leastone pool of water; and at least one hose retractor adapted to retractsuch at least one vacuum hose onto such at least one hose reel; whereinsuch at least one vacuum hose is adapted to remain continuously full ofwater when retracted onto such at least one hose reel; wherein such atleast one hose deployer comprises at least one hydraulic actuator; andsuch at least one hydraulic actuator actuates by vacuum fluid pressure.

Further, it provides such a cleaning system further comprising: at leastone housing adapted to house such at least one vacuum hose, on such atleast one hose reel, below such at least one waterline of such at leastone pool of water; wherein such at least one housing comprises at leastone door adapted to provide at least one exit from such at least onehousing into such at least one pool of water; and wherein such at leastone door is located substantially below such at least one waterline ofsuch at least one pool of water. Even further, it provides such acleaning system wherein: such at least one vacuum hose further comprisesat least one vacuum cleaner; and such at least one vacuum cleaner isoperationally coupled to such at least one first end of such at leastone vacuum hose; and such at least one vacuum hose and such at least onevacuum cleaner are positioned entirely within such at least one housingwhen such at least one vacuum hose is retracted for storage.

Moreover, it provides such a cleaning system wherein: such at least onehose deployer comprises at least one automatic hose deployer adapted toautomatically deploy such at least one vacuum hose when such at leastone vacuum pump is activated; and such at least one hose retractorcomprises at least one automatic hose retractor adapted to automaticallyretract such at least one vacuum hose when such at least one vacuum pumpis deactivated. Additionally, it provides such a cleaning system whereinsuch at least one hose deployer is powered by such at least one vacuumpump. Also, it provides such a cleaning system further comprising atleast one automatic switch adapted to automatically switch such at leastone vacuum pump from powering such at least one hose deployer to pullingwater through such at least one vacuum hose after such at least one hosedeployer deploys such at least one vacuum hose.

In addition, it provides such a cleaning system further comprising atleast one hydraulic motor adapted to at least one rotational force fromwater moved by such at least one vacuum pump. And, it provides such acleaning system wherein such at least one hose deployer is powered bysuch at least one hydraulic motor. Further, it provides such a cleaningsystem wherein such at least one hose retractor comprises at least onespring adapted to wind such at least one hose reel. Even further, itprovides such a cleaning system wherein such at least one hose deployercomprises at least one articulated carrier adapted to carry such atleast one hose deployer from at least one retracted position to at leastone deployed position and from at least one deployed position to atleast one retracted position.

Moreover, it provides such a cleaning system further comprising at leastone retraction detector adapted to detect the complete retraction ofsuch at least one vacuum hose onto such at least one reel. Additionally,it provides such a cleaning system further comprising at least onedeployment detector adapted to detect the finished deployment of such atleast one vacuum hose from such at least one reel. Also, it providessuch a cleaning system wherein such at least one hose deployer ispowered by such at least one vacuum pump prior to such at least onedeployment detector detecting the finished deployment of such at leastone vacuum hose from such at least one reel. In addition, it providessuch a cleaning system wherein such at least one vacuum pump pulls waterthrough such at least one vacuum hose after such at least one deploymentdetector detects the finished deployment of such at least one vacuumhose from such at least one reel.

And, it provides such a cleaning system further comprising at least oneautomatic switch adapted to automatically switch such at least onevacuum pump from powering such at least one hose deployer to pullingwater through such at least one vacuum hose after such at least onedeployment detector detects the finished deployment of such at least onevacuum hose from such at least one reel. Further, it provides such acleaning system wherein such at least one automatic switch comprises atleast one hydraulic actuator. Even further, it provides such a cleaningsystem wherein such at least one deployment detector comprises: at leastone spring-loaded lever adapted to provide at least one spring-loadedlever on the interior of such at least one hose reel wherein such atleast one spring-loaded lever is compressed when such at least onevacuum hose presses such at least one spring-loaded lever; and whereinsuch at least one spring-loaded lever is released when such at least onevacuum hose is removed from such at least one spring-loaded lever; atleast one spring-loaded bar adapted to provide at least onespring-loaded bar on the exterior of such at least one hose reel whereinsuch at least one spring-loaded bar is pulled into at least oneretracted position when such at least one spring-loaded lever iscompressed; and wherein such at least one spring-loaded bar means isreleased into at least one extended position when such at least onespring-loaded lever is released; at least one spring-loaded switchwherein such at least one spring-loaded switch is open when such atleast one spring-loaded bar is pulled into such at least one retractedposition; and wherein such at least one spring-loaded switch is closedwhen such at least one spring-loaded bar is released into such at leastone extended position and contacts such at least one spring-loadedswitch.

Even further, it provides such a cleaning system wherein such at leastone hose deployer comprises: at least one hydraulic motor; wherein suchat least one hydraulic motor is powered by such at least one vacuumpump; at least one hose-guiding wheel adapted to guide such at least onevacuum hose; at least one hose-moving wheel adapted to move such atleast one vacuum hose; at least one wheel compressor adapted to compresssuch at least one vacuum hose between such at least one hose-guidingwheel and such at least one hose-moving wheel; wherein such at least onewheel compressor is actuated by such at least one vacuum pump; and atleast one drive adapted to drive such at least one hose-moving wheel offof such at least one hydraulic motor; whereby, when such at least onevacuum pump is turned on, such at least one vacuum hose is laterallycompressed and is rolled longitudinally between such at least onehose-guiding wheel and such at least one hose-moving wheel. Evenfurther, it provides such a cleaning system wherein: such at least onedrive comprises at least one drive chain; and at least one drivetensioner adapted to provide consistent tension to such at least onedrive chain. Even further, it provides such a cleaning system whereinsuch at least one hose-guiding wheel comprises such at least onehose-moving wheel.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this inventionprovides a system, comprising: at least one vacuum pump; at least onehydraulic motor; wherein such at least one hydraulic motor is powered bysuch at least one vacuum pump; at least one hose-guiding wheel adaptedto guide at least one hose; at least one hose-moving wheel adapted tomove such at least one hose; at least one wheel tensioner adapted totension such at least one hose between such at least one hose-guidingwheel and such at least one hose-moving wheel; wherein such at least onewheel tensioner is tensioned by such at least one vacuum pump; and atleast one drive adapted to drive such at least one hose-moving wheel offof such at least one hydraulic motor; whereby, when such at least onevacuum pump is turned on, such at least one hose is laterally compressedand is rolled longitudinally between such at least one hose-guidingwheel and such at least one hose-moving wheel.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this inventionprovides a cleaning system, comprising the steps of: storing at leastone hose reel in at least one body of water; reeling at least one hoseonto such at least one hose reel in such at least one body of water;storing such at least one hose reel having such at least one hose insuch at least one body of water; and unreeling such at least one hoseoff of such at least one hose reel in such at least one body of water;wherein such at least one hose is kept constantly filled with water;wherein the step of unreeling such at least one hose off of such atleast one hose reel in such at least one body of water further comprisesthe step of using at least one hydraulic motor to unreel such at leastone hose off of such at least one hose reel in such at least one body ofwater; wherein the step of using at least one hydraulic motor to unreelsuch at least one hose off of such at least one hose reel in such atleast one body of water further comprises the step of using at least onevacuum pump to pull water through such at least one hydraulic motor;switching such at least one vacuum pump from pulling water through suchat least one hydraulic motor to pulling water through such at least onevacuum hose after such at least one vacuum hose is unreeled from such atleast one reel; wherein such step of automatically switching furthercomprises the step of actuating at least one hydraulic actuator; whereinsuch step of reeling such at least one hose on to such at least one hosereel in such at least one body of water further comprises the step ofusing at least one spring to reel such at least one hose on to such atleast one hose reel in such at least one body of water; and pulling atleast one flow of water through such at least one hose.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a side view, in partial section, of an automatic vacuumassembly of a pool-cleaning system, retracted into a pool-wall housing,according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows a plan view of a swimming pool incorporating thepool-cleaning system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows a side view, in partial section, of an automatic vacuumassembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 shows a side view of a control assembly, hose guide, and vacuumhead of the automatic vacuum assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 shows an end view of the control assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 shows a top view of the control assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 shows a top view of a hydraulic drive turbine of the controlassembly according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 shows a side view of a turbine housing of the hydraulic driveturbine of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 shows a front view of a turbine impeller of the hydraulic driveturbine of FIG. 7.

FIG. 10 shows a top view of the turbine impeller of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 shows an end view diagrammatically illustrating the drivegearing of the control assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 12 shows a side view of a drive wheel of the control assembly ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 13 shows a side view diagrammatically illustrating the drivegearing of the control assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 14 shows a diagram illustrating the detection and controlcomponents of the control assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 15 shows a side view of a vacuum hose end fitting according to thepreferred embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 16 shows an end view of the vacuum hose end fitting of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 shows the sectional view 17-17 of FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 shows a partial sectional view illustrating the vacuum hose endhose fitting of FIG. 15 adjacent a vacuum hose docking assemblyaccording to the preferred embodiment of FIG. I.

FIG. 19 shows a partial sectional view illustrating the vacuum hose endhose fitting of FIG. 15 engaging the vacuum hose docking assembly ofFIG. 18.

FIG. 20 shows a perspective view illustrating vacuum hose dockingassembly of FIG. 18.

FIG. 21 shows a sectional view of the control valve assembly of FIG. 14.

FIG. 22 shows the section 22-22 of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 shows the section 23-23 of FIG. 21.

FIG. 24 shows a top view of an articulated drive wheel assembly of thecontrol assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 25 shows a side view of an armature of the articulated drive wheelassembly of FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 shows a top view of the armature of the articulated drive wheelassembly of FIG. 24.

FIG. 27 shows a side view of an alternate drive gear embodimentaccording to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 28 shows an end view of the alternate drive gear embodiment of FIG.27.

FIG. 29 shows a side view of a pool-cleaning system, retracted into itspool-wall housing, according to a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 30 shows a side view of the automatic vacuum assembly according toFIG. 29, in a deployed position.

FIG. 31 shows a detail of the upper portion of the automatic vacuumassembly of FIG. 29.

FIG. 32 shows a rear view of the deployer of FIG. 29.

FIG. 33A shows a side view of a drive wheel of FIG. 29.

FIG. 33B shows an edge view of the drive wheel of FIG. 33A.

FIG. 34 shows a detail of the upper portion of the automatic vacuumassembly according to FIG. 29, detailing the retraction sensor in alatched position.

FIG. 35 shows a detail of the upper portion of the automatic vacuumassembly according to FIG. 29, detailing the retraction sensor in anunlatched position.

FIG. 36 shows a simplified diagram of a hydraulic system according to apreferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 37 shows a diagram of the state of the hydraulic system duringvacuum hose deployment, with the hose deployment sensor lever depressed.

FIG. 38 shows a diagram of the state of the hydraulic system duringvacuum hose deployment, with the hose deployment sensor lever released.

FIG. 39 shows a diagram of the state of the hydraulic system duringvacuuming.

FIG. 40 shows a cross-section through section 40-40 of FIG. 38.

FIG. 41 shows an enlarged portion of FIG. 40, with the reel moved asideto show the workings of the hose deployment sensor.

FIG. 42 shows a rear view of the embodiment according to FIG. 29.

FIG. 43 shows a side view of a deployer according to another preferredembodiment of the present invention, in a non-deploying state.

FIG. 44 shows a side view of the deployer according to FIG. 43, in adeploying state.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST MODES AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THEINVENTION

FIG. 1 shows a side view, in partial section, of automatic vacuumassembly 110 of pool-cleaning system 100, retracted into pool-wallhousing 120, according to a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention. FIG. 2 shows a plan view of a water-filled swimming pool 102incorporating pool-cleaning system 100 of FIG. 1.

In the following specification, the terms “suction” and “vacuum” areused interchangeably to define conditions of decreased fluid pressurewithin the fluid (water) transporting interstices of pool-cleaningsystem 100 (generally associated with plumbing assemblies on the“suction side” (low-pressure side) of a water circulation pump). In thepresent disclosure, “suction side” refers to the pipes and fittings thatdraw water out of swimming pool 102 to be filtered

Preferably, pool-cleaning system 100 comprises an automaticvacuum-cleaning system that automatically deploys swimming pool vacuumhose 112 with an attached pool vacuum head 113, to clean the interior ofthe pool of debris, and automatically retracts pool vacuum head 113after sufficient cleaning has taking place.

Automatic vacuum assembly 110 is preferably organized around threeprincipal components comprising housing 120, which is preferablyinstalled in the side of swimming pool 102 at the time of poolconstruction, control assembly 108, which is placed in main housing 120by the user, and a long storage tube 111 (connected to main housing 120)that is preferably used to store the swimming pool vacuum hose 112 whenit is not in use.

Preferably, pool-cleaning system 100 operates utilizing fluid pressuregenerated by the circulation of water within the plumbing/filter systemof swimming pool 102. Preferably, pool-cleaning system 100 operates byutilizing the force of moving water generated by a coupling to thesuction side of the plumbing/filter system of swimming pool 102. Thedevice most often used in pool plumbing/filter systems to circulatewater within swimming pools is an electrically driven pump, identifiedherein as circulation pump 130, as shown (and embodying herein whereinthe at least one low-pressure fluid source comprises at least one fluidcirculation pump adapted to circulate the water of such at least onepool of water). It should be noted that in the diagrammatic illustrationof FIG. 2, a residential size pool having a single circulation pump 130is shown, however, larger pools, such as competition pools, municipalpools, etc., may comprise multiple pumps and/or multiple automaticvacuum assemblies 110.

Automatic vacuum assembly 110 is shown in FIG. 1 in a retracted (storedstate) where the operational components of automatic vacuum assembly 110are contained substantially within main housing 120 and storage tube 111as shown. Preferably, the operational components of automatic vacuumassembly 110 are contained substantially within housing 120 whencirculation pump 130 is off, as shown, and automatically deploy intopool 102 through door 122 when circulation pump 130 is operating. Uponreading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skillin the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference,etc., other automatic vacuum assembly components, such as timers,sensors, remote controls, chemical addition systems, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, housing 120 (at least embodying herein at least one secondhousing comprising at least one hollow interior adapted to house such atleast one first housing) is constructed as an integral structure ofswimming pool 102, preferably position under a portion of pool deck 103adjacent the peripheral wall 105 of swimming pool 102, as shown (atleast embodying herein wherein such at least one second housing isprepositionally fixed relative to the at least one pool of water).Preferably, the interior of housing 120 is in fluid communication withthe water contained within swimming pool 102, as shown. Preferably,automatic vacuum assembly 110 is located within housing 120 at aposition submerged below the waterline of the pool, as shown. Similarly,storage tube 11I preferably extends outwardly from swimming pool 102 atan elevation adapted to maintain vacuum hose 112 below the waterline ofthe pool (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one tubularsleeve is adapted to maintain the at least one substantial portion ofthe at least one vacuum hose submerged within water from such at leastone pool of water). Preferably maintaining automatic vacuum assembly 110(including vacuum hose 120) in a submerged condition eliminates the needto physically prime (fill with water to remove air) vacuum hose 112prior to each use, as typically required to properly operate liquidcirculation pumps. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, underappropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances intechnology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, such as placingthe housing underneath the pool, having a dry housing, and keeping thehoses filled with water by other means, other housing dimensions, etc.,may suffice.

Preferably, the interior of housing 120 extends through peripheral wall105, as shown (at least embodying herein at least one first passageadapted to provide fluid communication between such at least one hollowinterior and the at least one pool of water). Preferably, the openingformed by the extension of housing 120 through peripheral wall 105 iscovered by a pivoting door 122, as shown. Preferably, door 122 ispositioned substantially below the waterline of swimming pool 102, asshown (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one first passagecomprises at least one door adapted to provide at least one closable andopenable barrier between such at least one first passage and the leastone pool of water; and wherein such at least one door is positionedsubstantially below at least one waterline of such at least one pool ofwater). Preferably, door 122 is hinged on one side, and is opened andclosed by the deployment and retraction of automatic vacuum assembly110. Preferably, door 122 is held open, preferably open about 180degrees against peripheral wall 105, when automatic vacuum assembly 110is in a deployed state. Preferably, door 122 is held closed whenautomatic vacuum assembly 110 is in a retracted state. Preferably, door122 is sized between about fourteen inches and about sixteen inchessquare. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those withordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, userpreference, etc., other arrangements, such as bifold doors, slidingdoors, no door, a door partially above the waterline, a door largeenough to insert and remove the automatic vacuum assembly, etc., maysuffice.

Preferably, access to the interior of housing 120 from the surface ofpool deck 103 is provided through surface hatch 124, as shown.Preferably, surface hatch 124 comprises a removable panel setapproximately flush within the upper surface of pool deck 103, as shown.Preferably, surface hatch 124 is large enough to permit access toautomatic vacuum assembly 110 for cleaning and repairs, as shown. Morepreferably, surface hatch 124 is large enough to permit automatic vacuumassembly 110 to be conveniently inserted into and removed from housing120, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, thosewith ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, underappropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances intechnology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, such as nosurface hatch, access through the underwater door, etc., may suffice.Preferably, surface hatch 124 is constructed from a substantially rigidand durable material with molded plastic being preferred.

Preferably, surface hatch 124 (and the deployment equipment under it) islocatable at almost any preferred position around the periphery ofswimming pool 102 (except over an in-pool bench, stair, or similarstructure). Preferably, surface hatch 124 is located on the side ofswimming pool 102 adjacent occupied structure 115 to limit thevisibility of door 122 located below the waterline, as shown.

Preferably, housing 120 is formed during construction of the pool walls,by placing concrete form 126 in an appropriate position relative to thefinished interior of the pool and waterline elevation. Preferably,concrete form 126 comprises a preformed and substantially rigidstructure of appropriate size and interior configuration to producehousing 120, as shown. Preferably, form 126 is secured within thestructural reinforcement of the pool wall and is encased within theconcrete used to form peripheral wall 105 (generally a spray-appliedconcrete material such as Gunite or Shotcrete). Upon reading theteachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the artwill now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, consideringsuch issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., otherarrangements, such as retrofitting an existing pool, using otherstructural materials, not using a form, etc., may suffice. Preferably,form 126 remains permanently embedded within peripheral wall 105, asshown. Preferably, form 126 comprises at least one substantially rigidmaterial suitable for concrete embedment, such as, for example rigidplastic, preferably including non-corrosive ABS. Upon reading theteachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art willnow understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering suchissues as cost, user preference, intended use, etc., other housingconstructions, such as welded stainless steel, poly-concretes, fiberreinforced composites, etc., may suffice.

A problem common in the use of plastic vacuum hoses used in maintainingswimming pools is hose hysteresis. Hose hysteresis is the tendency ofthe hose material to retain the shape in which it was stored prior touse. For example, if a hose is stored in a conventional coiledarrangement, on deployment, the hose will have a tendency to retain thecoiled shape thus reducing the ability of the hose to move freely withthe operation of the pool equipment (e.g. pool vacuum head 113). Tosignificantly reduce hose hysteresis problems, storage tube 111 ispreferably adapted to store vacuum hose 112 in an uncoiled andsubstantially linear configuration, as shown. Preferably, vacuum hose112 is stored in a substantially linear configuration within storagetube 111, as shown.

Preferably, storage tube 111 (at least embodying herein at least onetubular sleeve adapted to removably store at least one substantialportion of the at least one vacuum hose) extents outwardly from swimmingpool 102 in a linear or near-linear configuration most accomodating tothe physical arrangements of the site. Most preferably, storage tube 111is arranged along a single linear axis. In sites comprising limited areaand/or other physical limitations, storage tube 111 may preferablycomprise one or more bends, as shown, preferably an aggregate bend ofless than 360 degrees, most preferably less than 180 degrees.Preferably, storage tube 111 comprises the minimum number of bendsrequired to accommodate physical restrictions within the site (thatprohibit the more preferred placement along a single axis). Preferably,for best in-service operation, storage tube 111 comprises no more thantwo 90-degree bends.

The overall length of storage tube 111 is preferably determined based onthe size and configuration of the pool (a maximum length of about 40feet being preferred for most home pool applications). Preferably,storage tube 111 extents underground from aperture connection 123 ofhousing 120 (at least embodying herein at least one second passageadapted to provide fluid communication between such at least one hollowinterior and such at least one tubular sleeve) at a substantiallyconstant elevation, as shown. Preferably, the interior of storage tube111 is in fluid communication with the interior of housing 120 andtherefore contains a continuous supply of the water of swimming pool 102(at least embodying herein wherein such at least one tubular sleevecomprises at least one first open end in fluid communication with the atleast one pool of water). This preferred arrangement provides submerged(pre-primed) storage of vacuum hose 112, as shown. Preferably, thedistal end 117 of storage tube 111 is turned upward to terminate at apoint above grade level, as shown, to facilitate service and maintenanceoperations (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one tubularsleeve comprises at least one second open end; such at least one secondopen end is positioned above the at least one pool of water).Preferably, distal end 117 comprises removable cap 119 for serviceaccess to the interior of storage tube 111, as shown (at least embodyingherein wherein such at least one second open end comprises at least oneremovable cover adapted to removably cover such at least one second openend). To further ensure that no hose memory problems arise, the hose ismechanically turned slightly with each deployment so that it is storedin a different position after each use.

Preferably, storage tube 111 is constructed from a plurality ofinterconnectable tubular sections, preferably tubular segments havingindividual lengths of about five feet and an interior diameter of aboutfour inches (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one tubularsleeve comprises at least one plurality of interconnectable segmentsadapted to provide segmented assembly of such at least one tubularsleeve). Preferably, the builder of pool 102 assembles the segments toform a continuous and substantially watertight underground storage tube,as shown. Preferably, tube 111 is constructed from at least one durablematerial suitable for direct burial within soil 106, as shown. Tube 111is preferably constructed from a plastic material with AcrylonitrileButadiene Styrene (ABS) being most preferred. Upon reading the teachingsof this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will nowunderstand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering suchissues as user preference, intended use, etc., other storage pipematerials, such as Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC), High Density Polyethylene(HDPE), low and medium density polyethylenes (PE), etc., may suffice.Preferably, the individual segments of tube 111 of are permanentlyjoined during construction, most preferably by chemical bonding.Preferably, to further ensure no hose memory problems arise; vacuum hose112 is mechanically turned slightly with each deployment so that onretraction it is stored in a different position after each use.

FIG. 3 shows a side view, in partial section, of automatic vacuumassembly 110 of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 shows a side view of control assembly108, hose guide 107, and vacuum head 113 of automatic vacuum assembly110. FIG. 5 shows an end view of control assembly 108 of FIG. 1 withFIG. 6 showing a top view of control assembly 108 of FIG. 1. Thefollowing descriptions make specific references to FIG. 3 through FIG. 6with continued references to the prior figures. Preferably, surfacehatch 124 is supported within pool deck 103 by a separate pre-formed boxidentified herein as access riser 109, as best shown in FIG. 3.Preferably, access riser 109 comprises a concrete form elementsubstantially isolated from concrete form 126 defining housing 120, asshown. Expansion joint material 121 is used to further isolate concreteform 126 from access riser 109 and any thermal movement imparted toaccess riser 109 by pool deck 103.

Preferably, control assembly 108 is positioned within the floor ofhousing 120, as shown. To facilitate maintenance and inspection, controlassembly 108 is removable from housing 120 (at least embodying hereinwherein such at least one first housing is removable from such at leastone hollow interior of such at least one second housing). Preferably,vacuum hose 112 extends from storage tube 111 to pass through controlassembly 108 and hose guide 107, as shown. Preferably, vacuum hose 112comprises a first end 202, preferably connected to vacuum head 113, asshown, and a second end 204, which is preferably coupled to vacuumtransfer assembly 270 (as shown in FIG. 14).

Preferably, the lead end of vacuum hose 112 is operably coupled tovacuum head 113, as shown. Preferably, vacuum head 113 comprises acommercially available suction-type automatic pool cleaner. Automaticpool cleaners suitable for use as vacuum head 113 include theNavigator-series of vacuum-operated products produced by Hayward PoolProducts inc., of Pomona, Calif., U.S.A.

Preferably, housing 120 supports one or more adjustable hose guides 107,as shown, which function to guide vacuum hose 112, during deployment andespecially during retraction. Preferably, hose guides 107 comprises aninternal set of free-running wheels adapted to assist in guiding themovement of vacuum hose 112 through door 122, as shown. Upon reading theteachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the artwill now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, consideringsuch issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., otherguide arrangements, such as other hose guides, other hose guideplacements, no hose guides, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, control assembly 108 automatically controls the deploymentand retraction of vacuum head 113 and vacuum hose 112. Control assembly108 (at least embodying herein at least one hose deployer adapted todeploy the at least one first end of the at least one vacuum hose intosuch at least one pool of water and at least one hose retractor adaptedto retract the at least one vacuum hose onto such at least one tubularsleeve; and at least embodying herein wherein such at least one hosedeployer comprises at least one automatic hose deployer adapted toautomatically deploy the at least one vacuum hose on activation of theat least one fluid circulation pump; and such at least one hoseretractor comprises at least one automatic hose retractor adapted toautomatically retract the at least one vacuum hose on deactivation ofthe at least one fluid circulation pump) preferably comprises a set ofinternal drive wheels 242 (as indicated in the dashed line depiction ofFIG. 4) adapted to engage and power the movement of vacuum hose 112, asshown.

Preferably, vacuum hose 112 comprises a reinforced, 1½ inch diameterswimming pool vacuum hose of the sort known in the art of swimming poolmaintenance, as shown, such as those manufactured by Hayward PoolProducts, Inc., of Pomona, Calif., U.S.A. Preferably, vacuum hose 112comprises a circumferentially ridged exterior surface. Preferably,vacuum hose 112 comprises first end 202, preferably connected to vacuumhead 113, as shown, and second end 204 (see FIG. 1) that is preferablycoupled to vacuum hose end fitting 132, which preferably detactablyengages vacuum hose docking assembly 294 (as shown in FIG. 14).

Preferably, control assembly 108 is driven by hydraulic power derivedfrom the fluid pressure generated by the circulation of water within theplumbing/filter system of swimming pool 102. Preferably, controlassembly 108 comprises an on-board hydraulic turbine 240, as shown.Water flow from the suction (low-pressure) side of the pool plumbingsystem is coupled to hydraulic drive turbine 240 by means of suctionconnection 134, as shown. Preferably, control valve assembly 136 ofcontrol assembly 108 manages the circulation of water between suctionconnection 134, hydraulic turbine 240, automatically switching waterflow between hydraulic drive turbine 240 and vacuum hose 112 as furtherdescribed in FIG. 14).

Preferably, control assembly 108 comprises control assembly housing 138(at least embodying herein at least one first housing adapted to housesuch at least one hose deployer, such at least one fluid coupler, andsuch at least one hose retractor) adapted to house drive wheels 242,reduction gearing, and related control actuators of the system.Preferably, hydraulic drive turbine 240, control valve assembly 136, andconstant torque spring housing 140 are each mounted externally ofcontrol assembly housing 138, as shown. Preferably, each opposing end ofcontrol assembly housing 138 comprises a circular hose port 142providing accessible passage of vacuum hose 112 through control assembly108, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, thoseof ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as intended use, manufacturingcosts, etc., other main body housing arrangements, such as, for example,the inclusion of lifting handles, mounting apertures, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, control assembly 108 is constructed of materials suitablefor prolonged submersion in pool water (such as, for example, ozonatedwater, chlorinated water, or salt water). Preferred materials includealuminum, stainless steel, with oxidation-resistant plastics being mostpreferred. Where multiple types of metals are utilized, measures arepreferably taken to prevent galvanic corrosion reactions. Upon readingthe teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in theart will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference,etc., other materials, such as alternate metals, other plastics,composite materials, coated materials, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 7 shows a top view of hydraulic drive turbine 240 of controlassembly 108 according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1. FIG. 8shows a side view of turbine housing 144 of hydraulic drive turbine 240.FIG. 9 shows a front view of turbine impeller 146 while FIG. 10 shows atop view of turbine impeller 146 of hydraulic drive turbine 240. Thefollowing teachings of the specification make particular reference toFIG. 7 through FIG. 10 and general reference to the prior figures.Hydraulic drive turbine 240 is preferably adapted to convert a flowcirculating pool water to a usable mechanical rotation. Preferably,hydraulic drive turbine 240 comprises a rotating turbine impeller 146situate within hollow circular cavity 143 of ducted turbine housing 144,as shown. Preferably, turbine housing 144 comprises at least one,preferably six funnel-shaped inlets 145, adapted conduct pool water tohollow circular cavity 143, as shown. Preferably, a first side of eachfunnel-shaped inlet 145 is aligned approximately tangent to the innerdiameter B of hollow circular cavity 143, as shown. The opposite side ispreferably set at an angle about 10-degrees divergent from the first, asshown. Each funnel-shaped inlet 145 of the example turbine of FIG. 7comprises a minimum passage size of about one-quarter square inch. Theexample turbine housing of FIG. 7 comprises an outer diameter A of aboutsix inches and an inner cavity diameter B of about 4½ inches.

Preferably, the outer diameter of turbine impeller 146 is sized to fitclosely within hollow circular cavity 143 while maintaining appropriaterotational clearances during operation. In the example turbine impellerof FIG. 7, the backing disk 147 of turbine impeller 146 comprises athickness C of about one-eighth inch. Preferably, the front face ofbacking disk 147 comprises an array of projecting impeller blades 148,preferably about 18 impeller blades 148, spaced equally about theperiphery of the impeller and generally aligned along radius lines ofthe disk, as shown. Preferably, each planar side of impeller blade 148comprises a surface area of slightly less than about one-half squareinch.

Preferably, hub 149 of turbine impeller 146 is adapted to receive driveshaft 203 (as best illustrated in FIG. 11). Preferably, drive shaft 203is rigidly fixed to hub 149 by set screw 205, as shown. A rear coverplate 207 is bolted to turbine housing 144 to complete the assembly, asshown.

In use, hollow circular cavity 143 of hydraulic drive turbine 240 iscoupled to suction (vacuum) originating at suction connection 134 ofcontrol valve assembly 136 by means of vacuum transfer conduit 206, asshown. When circulation pump 130 is initially activated, a low-pressurecondition is generated within hollow circular cavity 143 preferablydrawing jets of water through funnel-shaped inlets 145. Preferably,turbine impeller 146 is forcefully rotated by the impact of the incomingwater against impeller blades 148. Preferably, rotation of turbineimpeller 146 results in mechanical rotation of drive shaft 203. Thus,hydraulic drive turbine 240 of such at least one hose deployer at leastembodies herein at least one hydraulic motor adapted to power thedeploying of the at least one first hose end of the at least one vacuumhose by such at least one hose deployer; such at least one hydraulicmotor is in fluid communication with the at least one low-pressure fluidsource; and such at least one hydraulic motor is adapted to operate bydirecting at least one movement of the water of the at least one pool ofwater toward the at least one low-pressure fluid source

FIG. 11 shows a cut away end view diagrammatically illustrating theinterior drive gear arrangements of control assembly 108. FIG. 12 showsa side view of a representative drive wheel 242 of control assembly 108.FIG. 13 shows a side view diagrammatically illustrating the drive geararrangements of control assembly 108 of FIG. 1.

The deployment and retraction of vacuum hose 112 by control assembly 108is performed by an internal drive mechanism that preferably comprisesdrive assembly 241 operated by gear train assembly 208, as shown.Preferably, rotational torque generated by hydraulic drive turbine 240is transferred along drive shaft 203 to drive gear 210, as shown.Preferably, drive gear 210 is continuously engaged on pivoting gearassembly 212, as shown. Preferably, pivoting gear assembly 212 comprisestwo gears, first gear 214 rigidly coupled along a connecting shaft tosecond gear 216, as shown. Preferably, drive gear 210 is continuoulyengaged on first gear 214, as shown. Preferably, pivoting gear assembly212 is mounted within pivoting armature 218, as shown. Preferably,pivoting armature 218 is adapted to movably engage and disengage secondgear 216 with clutch input gear 220, as shown.

When circulation pump 130 is activated, the low-pressure vacuumgenerated actuates start-stop piston 215 (as further described in FIG.14). The actuation of start-stop piston 215 moves pivoting armature 218to a position engaging second gear 216, as shown. Tensioning spring 217is preferably used to bias pivoting armature 218 to a position of geardisengagement that disengages second gear 216 with clutch input gear 220when circulation pump 130 is deactivated and vacuum pressure is nolonger supplied to start-stop piston 215.

Preferably, torque applied by second gear 216 at clutch input gear 220is delivered to clutch assembly 226 by means of clutch shaft 224, asshown. Preferably, clutch assembly 226 comprises an arrangement ofcoaxial clutch disks held in frictional contact by clutch spring 228, asshown. Clutch assembly 226 (at least embodying herein at least onelimited-slip coupler adapted to provide limited-slip decoupling of atleast one mechanical force transferred between such at least onehydraulic motor, such at least one spring tensioner, and such at leastone drive assembly) is preferably adapted to decouple rotational torqueapplied along clutch shaft 224, from both first spring gear 230 and fromprimary wheel drive gear 222 (when a maximum predetermined level oftorque is acheived). Preferably, pluralities of small clutch disks arerigidly fixed to clutch shaft 224, as shown. Preferably, these smallclutch disks are interspersed between and frictionally engage; a firstset of larger clutch disks 225 firmly coupled to first spring gear 230;and a second independent set of larger clutch disks 227 firmly coupledto primary wheel drive gear 222. Preferably, torque is transferredacross clutch assembly 226 so long as friction between the larger clutchdisks and smaller clutch disks is maintained. An application of excesstorque within clutch assembly 226 overcomes the frictional transfer offorce between the disks thereby decoupling the source of the torqueforce from the remaining components of the system.

Preferably, first spring gear 230 is adapted to transfer torque fromclutch assembly 226 to a larger diameter second spring gear 232, asshown. Preferably, second spring gear 232 is adapted to transfer torqueto constant torque spring 141 (located within constant torque springhousing 140) through spring drive shaft 236, as shown.

Similarly, primary wheel drive gear 222 is preferably adapted totransfer torque from clutch assembly 226 to drive assembly 241, asshown. Preferably, drive assembly 241 comprises upper and lower drivewheels 242, pivoting armatures 248, secondary wheel drive gear 238, andtension springs 250, as shown. Preferably, primary wheel drive gear 222transfers torque from clutch assembly 226 to drive assembly 241 byengaging the peripheral sprocket rings 234 of the upper drive wheels242, as shown. In addition, primary wheel drive gear 222 is preferablyadapted to transfer torque to secondary wheel drive gear 238, as shown.Preferably, secondary wheel drive gear 238 transfers operational torquefrom primary wheel drive gear 222 to the peripheral sprocket rings 234of the lower drive wheels 242, as shown.

Preferably, each drive wheel 242 comprises a cylindrical hub 244adjoining two opposing frustoconical side spools, as shown. Preferably,at least one of the two frustoconical side spools comprise sprocket ring234, as shown. Preferably, a plurality of hose-engaging members 246project outwardly from hub 244, as shown. Preferably, hose-engagingmembers 246 are adapted to mechanically manipulate vacuum hose 112 byengaging the circumferentially ridged exterior surface of vacuum hose112. Preferably, each drive wheel 242 comprises a central axle aboutwhich drive wheel 242 rotates. Preferably, upper drive wheels 242 aregeared to rotate opposite of lower drive wheels 242, as shown, thusdriving vacuum hose 112 (indicated in dash lines) through controlassembly 108 in a generally linear manner.

Preferably, each lower drive wheel 242 is mounted within a pivotingarmature 248 forming lower articulated drive wheel assembly 330, asshown (and further described in FIG. 24). Preferably, both pivotingarmatures 248 rotate about the center axis of secondary wheel drive gear238, as shown. Preferably, each lower drive wheel 242 is held inoperational tension against vacuum hose 112 by a tension spring 250coupled to each pivoting armature 248, as shown. A manually depressiblebar 252 (or similar actuator structure) is used to manually disengagedrive wheels 242 from vacuum hose 112, as shown. Preferably, by applyinga downward force (indicated by arrow 252A) on each pivoting armature248, each lower drive wheel 242 is swung away from a position ofengagement with vacuum hose 112 (thus allowing removal or repositioningof the hose).

In preferred operation, hydraulic drive turbine 240 is operationallycoupled to constant torque spring 141 by clutch assembly 226 of geartrain assembly 208. As hydraulic drive turbine 240 operates, drivewheels 242 deploy vacuum hose 112. As vacuum hose 112 is deployed,constant torque spring 141 within constant torque spring housing 140 issimultaneously wound. If vacuum hose 112 is fully deployed beforeconstant torque spring 141 is fully wound, clutch assembly 226 willallow primary wheel drive gear 222 to slip relative to the rotation ofshaft 224 until constant torque spring 141 is fully wound. If constanttorque spring 141 (at least one spring tensioner) is fully wound beforevacuum hose 112 is fully deployed, clutch assembly 226 will allow firstspring gear 230 to slip relative to the rotation of shaft 224 untilvacuum hose 112 is fully deployed.

When constant torque spring 141 is fully wound and vacuum hose 112 isfully deployed, the system detects the condition (as described in FIG.14) and switches suction flow from hydraulic drive turbine 240 to vacuumhose 112 and vacuum head 113. Since drive turbine 240 is no longerpowered, a gravity actuated ratchet, most preferably a ratchet 253engaging first gear 214, holds gear train assembly 208, drive wheels242, and vacuum hose 112 firmly in place during deployment.

When circulation pump 130 (typically the swimming pool filter pump)turns off, start-stop piston 215 is deactivated allowing pivoting gearassembly 212 to disengage hydraulic drive turbine 240 from the balanceof the gear train assembly 208, as shown. As this happens, constanttorque spring 141 (at least embodying herein wherein such at least oneautomatic hose retractor comprises at least one spring tensioner adaptedto tension at least one retractor spring during deployment of the atleast one vacuum hose by such at least one automatic hose deployer)releases its wound up energy through spring drive shaft 236, secondspring gear 232, first spring gear 230, clutch assembly 226, primarywheel drive gear 222, and drive wheels 242, as shown. This results invacuum hose 112 being pulled back into storage tube 111 and vacuum head113 being drawn back into main housing 120. The above-describedarrangements at least embody herein at least one drive assemblycomprising at least one first hose-engaging wheel and at least onesecond hose-engaging wheel each one adapted to physically engage the atleast one vacuum hose; wherein, during such physical engagement, the atleast one vacuum hose is movably deployed by rotation of such at leastone first hose-engaging wheel and such at least one second hose-engagingwheel by such at least one hydraulic motor; and wherein, during suchphysical engagement, the at least one vacuum hose is movably retractedby counter-rotation of such at least one first hose-engaging wheel andsuch at least one second hose-engaging wheel by such at least one springtensioner.

Preferably, constant torque spring housing 140 comprises a waterproofenclosure for containing constant torque spring 141 in a dry condition.At least one shaft seal is used at the penetration of spring drive shaft236 with constant torque spring housing 140. Preferably, constant torquespring 141 comprises an output spool having a diameter of about fourinches and a supply spool having a diameter of at least two inches.Preferably, a 301 stainless steel spring having a length of about 33inches, a thickness of about 0.02 inches, and a width of about one inchoperates between the two spools. Preferably, constant torque spring 141is designed for an operational life of at least about 4000 cycles, morepreferably about 10,000 cycles.

FIG. 14 shows a diagram illustrating the detection and controlcomponents of control assembly 108 of FIG. 1. Control assembly 108preferably comprises four detection and control components identifiedherein as spring-fully-wound detector 260, hose deployment detector 262of vacuum transfer assembly 270, turbine drive controller 264, andcontrol valve assembly 136, as shown. In the prior figures, the generaloperation of control assembly 108 was discussed in specific regard tothe mechanical assemblies directly related to the deployment andretraction of vacuum hose 112. In FIG. 14, the operation of and controlof the suction water flow is discussed in further detail.

Preferably, turbine drive controller 264 comprises start-stop piston 215as previously described in FIG. 13. Preferably, start-stop piston 215 ispressure actuated by a vacuum connection originating at primary vacuumchamber 135 of control valve assembly 136, as shown (preferably coupleddirectly to vacuum pressure originating at connection 134 of FIG. 5).Preferably, piston 215 a of start-stop piston 215 is drawn into thehousing of start-stop piston 215 in the presence of suction pressure atprimary vacuum chamber 135.

Preferably, control valve assembly 136 (at least embodying herein atleast one automatic switch adapted to automatically switch the couplingof the at least one low-pressure fluid source between such at least onehydraulic motor and such at least one fluid coupler) comprises aplurality of pressure actuated, float actuated, and manually actuatedvalves, as shown. The primary function of control valve assembly 136 isto switch suction water flow between hydraulic drive turbine 240 andvacuum hose 112. A second function of control valve assembly 136 is toprovide a means for manual and automatic low water-level retraction ofvacuum hose 112 during operation of circulation pump 130.

The principle component enabling the above-described switch of suctionwater flow between hydraulic drive turbine 240 and vacuum hose 112 ismain diverter valve 266, as shown. Preferably, main diverter valve 266is adapted to control the flow of water entering primary vacuum chamber135 from vacuum transfer conduit 206 (coupled to hydraulic drive turbine240) and/or vacuum hose transfer conduit 268, as shown. Note that vacuumhose transfer conduit 268 of control valve assembly 136 extends totransfer assembly 270, as shown.

Preferably, main diverter valve 266 is movably retained within controlvalve body of control valve assembly 136, as shown. Preferably, maindiverter valve 266 comprises two valve gates rigidly coupled alongcommon shaft 273. Preferably, first valve gate 274 opens and closes apassageway between primary vacuum chamber 135 and vacuum transferconduit 206. Similarly, second valve gate 276 preferably opens andcloses a passageway between primary vacuum chamber 135 and vacuum hosetransfer conduit 268. Preferably, main diverter valve 266 is configuredsuch that first valve gate 274 fully opens as second valve gate 276fully closes (and vice versa). This preferred arrangement provides ameans to establish water flow alternately between hydraulic driveturbine 240 and vacuum hose 112. Main diverter valve 266 is preferablybiased toward a condition whereby first valve gate 274 (controllingwater flow from the turbine) is normally open and second valve gate 276(controlling water flow from vacuum hose 112) is normally closed.Preferably, a helical spring 280, located along an extension of commonshaft 273, provides the appropriate biasing force.

Operation of main diverter valve 266 is preferably automatic.Preferably, operation of main diverter valve 266 is controlled by vacuumactuated bellows 247, as shown. Preferably, common shaft 273 of maindiverter valve 266 extends through the wall of vacuum transfer conduit206 and is fixed to the interior of bellows 247, as shown. Preferably,the interior of vacuum actuated bellows 247 is coupled by pressuretransfer passage 278 to primary vacuum chamber 135, as shown. Duringperiods when circulation pump 130 is inactive, bellows 247 is held in anexpanded configuration by spring 280, as shown. In this condition, firstvalve gate 274 is open and second valve gate 276 is closed. Preferably,a low-pressure (vacuum) condition within bellows 247 results in thecontraction of bellows 247 (at least embodying herein at least onepressure operated actuator adapted to actuate at least one fluidcontrolling valve) and movement of main diverter valve 266 tocontemporaneously close first valve gate 274 (supplying vacuum pressureto the turbine) and open second valve gate 276 (supplying vacuumpressure to vacuum hose 112). Preferably, for contraction of bellows 247(and switching of water flow between hydraulic drive turbine 240 andvacuum hose 112) to occur, three conditions must be met. First,circulation pump 130 (see FIG. 2) must be active and supplying vacuum toprimary vacuum chamber 135. Secondly, pressure transfer conduit 282 atspring-fully-wound detector 260 must be blocked. Thirdly, pressuretransfer conduit 282 at hose deployment detector 262 must be blocked.

Preferably, spring-fully-wound detector 260 is adapted to suppress theactuation of bellows 247 until constant torque spring 141 is fullywound. This is preferred detection procedure is accomplished by adaptingspring drive shaft 236 with worm gear assembly 284, as shown.Preferably, worm gear assembly 284 is adapted to rotate seal 286 toblock pressure inlet 288 of pressure transfer conduit 282, as shown. Theblocking of inlet 288 is preferably calibrated to coincide with anappropriate tensioning of constant torque spring 141. So long as inlet288 remains open, vacuum pressure within bellows 247 is insufficient toactuate main diverter valve 266.

Similarly, pressure transfer conduit 282 comprises a second pressureinlet 290 at hose deployment detector 262, as shown. Preferably,pressure inlet 290 is blocked when vacuum hose 112 is fully deployed anda specially designed vacuum hose end fitting 132 is engaged withinvacuum hose docking assembly 294 (the preferred arrangements andoperation of vacuum hose end fitting 132 and vacuum hose dockingassembly 294 are explained in further detail in FIG. 15). When inlet 290is open, indicating that vacuum hose 112 is not fully deployed, vacuumpressure within bellows 247 is insufficient to actuate main divertervalve 266.

The above described arrangements at least embody herein at least onehose deployment detector adapted to signal the detection of a completeddeployment of the at least one vacuum hose into the at least one pool ofwater; and at least one spring tension detector adapted to signal thedetection of the completed tensioning of such at least one retractorspring by such deployment of the at least one vacuum hose by such atleast one automatic hose deployer; wherein such at least one automaticswitch is adapted to maintain the coupling of the at least onelow-pressure fluid source to such at least one hydraulic motor in theabsence of such detection signals from either of such at least one hosedeployment detector and such at least one spring tension detector; andwherein such at least one automatic switch is adapted to switch thecoupling of the at least one low-pressure fluid source from such atleast one hydraulic motor to such at least one fluid coupler in thepresence of both such detection signals from such at least one hosedeployment detector and such at least one spring tension detector.

FIG. 15 shows a side view of vacuum hose end fitting 132 according tothe preferred embodiment of FIG. 1. FIG. 16 shows an end view of vacuumhose end fitting 132 with FIG. 17 showing the sectional view 17-17 ofFIG. 16. FIG. 18 shows a partial sectional view illustrating vacuum hoseend fitting 132 adjacent vacuum hose docking assembly 294 according tothe preferred embodiment of FIG. 1. FIG. 19 shows a partial sectionalview illustrating vacuum hose end fitting 132 operationally engagingvacuum hose docking assembly 294 of FIG. 18 and FIG. 20 shows aperspective view illustrating vacuum hose docking assembly of FIG. 18.

As previously described, a highly preferred feature of pool-cleaningsystem 100 comprises the uncoiled or semi-linear storage of vacuum hose112. To enable the use of substantially linear storage, a means forestablishing a vacuum connection to vacuum hose 112 must be provided.Preferably, control assembly 108 comprises vacuum transfer assembly 270,as shown. Preferably, vacuum transfer assembly 270 (at least embodyingherein further comprising at least one fluid coupler adapted to couplethe at least one second hose end of the at least one vacuum hose to theat least one low-pressure fluid source) comprises a novelvacuum-pressure transfer arrangement combining attachable vacuum hoseend hose fitting 132 engagable within vacuum hose docking assembly 294,as shown.

Preferably, the proximal end of vacuum hose end fitting 132 comprises aninternally disposed female receiver 300 (at least embodying herein atleast one vacuum hose end fitting adapted to removably engage the atleast one second hose end of the at least one vacuum hose) adapted toremovably receive male end fitting 302 of vacuum hose 112, as shown.Preferably, female receiver 300 comprises a slight conical taper tofacilitate frictional retention of male end fitting 302, as shown.Preferably, female receiver 300 is in fluid communication with at leastone, more preferably three symmetrically positioned vacuum transferports 304, as shown (at least embodying herein wherein such at least onevacuum hose end fitting comprises at least one vacuum transfer portadapted to transfer fluid between the at least one vacuum hose and suchat least one interior chamber).

Preferably, vacuum hose end hose fitting 132 comprises twocircumferential mating surfaces adapted to form a temporary pressureseal with two complementary mating surfaces of vacuum hose dockingassembly 294, as shown. Preferably, the exterior circumference of vacuumhose end hose fitting 132 comprises first seating surface 306 and secondseating surface 308, as shown. Preferably, vacuum transfer ports 304 ofvacuum hose end hose fitting 132 are positioned between first seatingsurface 306 and second seating surface 308, as shown.

Preferably, vacuum hose docking assembly 294 (at least embodying hereinat least one docking receiver adapted to removably receive such at leastone vacuum hose end fitting) comprises a generally cylindrical structurehaving two open ends joined, coaxially, by a continuous hollow interiorchamber 310, as shown (at least embodying herein wherein such at leastone at least one docking receiver comprises at least one interiorchamber adapted to receive interiorly at least one portion of such atleast one vacuum hose end fitting and pass exteriorly the at least onevacuum hose). Preferably, interior chamber 310 comprises inlet port 316adapted to provide a fluid coupling to vacuum hose transfer conduit 268,as shown (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one interiorchamber comprises at least one coupling to the at least one low-pressurefluid source). Preferably, the interior circumference of hollow interiorchamber 310 comprises third seating surface 312 and fourth seatingsurface 314, as shown. Preferably, inlet port 316 enters interiorchamber 310 between third seating surface 312 and fourth seating surface314, as shown. Third seating surface 312 and fourth seating surface arepreferably adapted to form a temporary pressure seal with first seatingsurface 306 and second seating surface 308, respectively (at leastembodying herein wherein such at least one interior chamber comprises atleast one pressure seal adapted to form at least one pressure seal withsuch at least one vacuum transfer port; and wherein such at least onepressure seal is adapted to form at least one pressure coupling tocouple operationally the at least one vacuum hose with the at least onelow-pressure fluid source).

Preferably, vacuum hose end hose fitting 132 is constructed of one ormore materials suitable for continuous submersion in pool water with atleast one molded plastic being preferred. Preferably, vacuum hose endhose fitting 132 is constructed of one or more materials comprising asubstantially neutral density relative to the pool water in which itoperates. This preferred feature assists in retraction of vacuum hoseend hose fitting 132 and vacuum hose 112 into storage tube 111.

Preferably, vacuum hose docking assembly 294 is mounted within controlassembly housing 138, between the circular hose port 142 facing storagetube 111 and drive assembly 241. In preferred use, vacuum hose 112 ispreferably positioned to pass through hollow interior chamber 310 ofvacuum hose docking assembly 294, as best shown in FIG. 18. Second end204 of vacuum hose 112 is preferably fitted with vacuum hose end hosefitting 132, as shown. Preferably, drive wheels 242 of drive assembly241 (see FIG. 13) draw vacuum hose 112 from storage tube 111 (seeFIG. 1) through vacuum hose docking assembly 294 during hose deployment.At the full deployment of vacuum hose 112, vacuum hose end hose fitting132 enters and engages vacuum hose docking assembly 294, as bestillustrated in FIG. 19. At full deployment, third seating surface 312forms a temporary pressure seal with first seating surface 306 as fourthseating surface forms a temporary pressure seal with second seatingsurface 308, as shown. This “sealed” engagement of vacuum hose end hosefitting 132 within vacuum hose docking assembly 294 provides a fluidcoupling between hollow interior chamber 310, vacuum transfer ports 304,female receiver 300, and the interior of vacuum hose 112, as shown.

FIG. 18, FIG. 19, and FIG. 20 illustrate the preferred configuration ofhose deployment detector 262 at vacuum hose docking assembly 294.Preferably, fourth seating surface 314 comprises pressure inlet 290 oftransfer conduit 282 (as best illustrated in FIG. 14). Preferably,second seating surface 308 blocks pressure inlet 290 as vacuum hose endhose fitting 132 engages vacuum hose docking assembly 294 thusindicating to control valve assembly 136, by mechanical pressure, thefull deployment of vacuum hose 112.

FIG. 21 shows a sectional view of control valve assembly 136 of FIG. 14.Preferably, control valve assembly 136 comprises low water leveldetector 320, as shown. Preferably, low water level detector 320comprises float 322 that detects when the swimming pool water level isbelow a level allowing pool-cleaning system 100 to operate properly.Preferably, float 322 is coupled to valve 324 that preferably operatesto block off vacuum pressure applied to primary vacuum chamber 135 bycirculation pump 130 at suction connection 134, as shown. If water leveldrops below elevation X, as shown, both float 322 and valve 324 (atleast embodying herein wherein such at least one water level detectorcomprises at least one automatic retraction initiator adapted toautomatically initiate the retraction of the at least one vacuum hose onsuch detection of such at least one low water level condition within theat least one pool of water) lower to block the flow of water drawn fromprimary vacuum chamber 135 toward suction connection 134 by the actionof circulation pump 130, as shown. With vacuum pressure blocked, controlassembly 108 reacts by performing the same retraction operations thatoccur when circulation pump 130 is deactivated, i.e. vacuum hose 112 andvacuum head 113 are retracted into main housing 120 and storage tube111.

In addition, control valve assembly 136 comprises manual stow button325, as shown. When a pool user wants to remove vacuum hose 112 andvacuum head 113 from swimming pool 102, he/she can press manual stowbutton 325 that is connected to valve 324 to lower and block off vacuumpressure applied to primary vacuum chamber 135 by circulation pump 130.Again, with vacuum pressure blocked, control assembly 108 performs thesame retraction operations that occur when circulation pump 130 isdeactivated, i.e. vacuum hose 112 and vacuum head 113 are retracted intomain housing 120 and storage tube 111.

Preferably, manual stow button 325 (at least embodying herein whereinsuch at least one automatic retraction initiator comprises at least onemanual actuator adapted to provide manual actuation of such at least oneautomatic retraction initiator) extends upwardly through an accessaperture located within surface hatch 124, as shown. Preferably, manualstow button 325 comprises adjustment feature 326 adapted to allowadjustments to the elevational position of manual stow button 325relative to surface hatch 124.

For ease of assembly, maintenance, and manufacture, control valveassembly 136 is constructed as a multi-part assembly, as shown.Preferably, valve assembly 136 is constructed of one or more durablematerials suitable for continuous submersion in pool water with plasticsbeing preferred.

FIG. 22 shows the section 22-22 of FIG. 21 and FIG. 23 shows the section23-23 of FIG. 21. Both FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 enable preferred arrangementsof a preferred commercial embodiment of control valve assembly 136. FIG.24 shows a top view of lower articulated drive wheel assembly 330comprising a set of drive wheels 242 engaged within two pivotingarmatures 248, as shown. FIG. 25 shows a side view of a single pivotingarmature 248 with FIG. 26 showing a top view of pivoting armature 248 oflower articulated drive wheel assembly 330. Preferably, lowerarticulated drive wheel assembly 330 is adapted to provide a means ofmanually disengaging vacuum hose 112 from control assembly 108 at anypoint of engagement along the hose. In addition, lower articulated drivewheel assembly 330 maintains a proper engagement tension with vacuumhose 112 to avoid slippage during deployment and retraction. Preferably,each pivoting armature 248 comprises a generally U-shaped member, asshown. Preferably, each pivoting armature 248 comprises end apertures332, about which the arms pivot, and mid apertures 334 adapted toreceive the central axle of drive wheels 242, as shown. The Lineardistance between end aperture 332 and mid aperture 334 is approximatelyequal to the combined radiuses secondary wheel drive gear 238 andperipheral sprocket ring 234, as best shown in FIG. 13. This preferredarrangement places the central axle of secondary wheel drive gear 238 atend aperture 332 to thus allowing a continuous engagement of secondarywheel drive gear 238 with both peripheral sprocket rings 234 in alloperational positions of pivoting armatures 248, as shown.

FIG. 27 shows a side view of alternate gear embodiment 340 according toa preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 28 shows an endview of the alternate gear embodiment 340 of FIG. 27. Preferably,alternate gear embodiment 340 comprises a unitary gear assembly adaptedfor use at primary wheel drive gear 222 and first spring gear 230.Preferably, one side of alternate gear embodiment 340 comprises hollowcylindrical extension 342 having a set of projecting tabs 344 interiorlydisposed therein. Preferably, projecting tabs 344 function to properlyposition and retain larger clutch disks 227 of clutch assembly 226.Preferably, alternate gear embodiment 340 comprises a central aperture346 adapted to pass shaft 224.

FIG. 29 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment of pool-cleaningsystem 100 identified herein as automatic vacuum assembly 1110 accordingto another preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 29illustrates automatic vacuum assembly 1110 retracted into its pool-wallhousing 1120. Preferably, automatic vacuum assembly 1110 comprises areel-type vacuum hose storage arrangement that is used in situationswhere use of the more preferred linear hose storage embodiments isimpractical. Preferably, the alternate embodiment of pool-cleaningsystem 100 comprises automatic vacuum assembly 1110, housing 1120, andcirculation pump 130, as shown. Preferably, automatic vacuum assembly1110 is housed within housing 1120 (at least embodying herein fillermeans for providing for such vacuum hose means to remain continuouslyfull of water; and at least embodying herein at least one filler adaptedto provide for such at least one vacuum hose to remain continuously fullof water; and at least embodying herein wherein such at least one fillerfurther comprises at least one housing adapted to provide at least onehousing adapted to contain such at least one vacuum hose, on such reelmeans, below such at least one waterline of such at least one pool ofwater; and at least embodying herein wherein such at least one vacuumhose is entirely within such at least one housing when such at least onevacuum hose is in a retracted position), and is connected to circulationpump 130, as shown. Preferably, automatic vacuum assembly 1110 is storedin housing 1120 when circulation pump 130 is off, as shown, andautomatic vacuum assembly 1110 automatically deploys vacuum hose 112into pool 102 through door 1122 when circulation pump 130 is on, asshown. Automatic vacuum assembly 1110 is shown in FIG. 29 in aretracted, stored state, where automatic vacuum assembly 1110 isentirely within housing 1120. Upon reading the teachings of thisspecification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understandthat, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues asadvances in technology, user preference, etc., other automatic vacuumassembly components, such as timers, sensors, remote controls, chemicaladdition systems, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, housing 1120 is built into the side of a pool, preferablyunder a portion of the pool deck, which communicates with the water inthe pool, so that automatic vacuum assembly 1110 may be placed intohousing 1120 and be substantially submerged below the waterline of thepool, as shown (at least embodying herein the step of storing at leastone hose reel in at least one body of water). Preferably, housing 1120is about one foot wide by about two feet deep (excluding the tunnel todoor 1122) by about four feet tall. Preferably automatic vacuum assembly1110 is submerged within housing 1120 and automatic vacuum assembly 1110is kept constantly full of water, which is necessary for most vacuumpumps 1130. This eliminates the typical step of priming a vacuum hose112 prior to use. Preferably, automatic vacuum assembly 1110 is keptconveniently close to the pool, and retracts out of sight when not inuse. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those withordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, userpreference, etc., other arrangements, such as placing the housingunderneath the pool, having a dry housing, and keeping the hoses filledwith water by other means, other housing dimensions, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, housing 1120 communicates to the pool through door 1122 (atleast embodying herein wherein such at least one housing furthercomprises at least one door adapted to provide at least one exit fromsuch at least one housing into such at least one pool of water; and atleast embodying herein wherein such at least one door is below such atleast one waterline of such at least one pool of water), as shown.Preferably, door 1122 is entirely below the waterline of the pool, asshown. Preferably, door 1122 is hinged on one side, and is opened andclosed by the deployment and retraction of automatic vacuum assembly1110. Preferably, door 1122 is held open, preferably open about 180degrees against the adjacent pool wall, when automatic vacuum assembly1110 is in a deployed state. Preferably, door 1122 is held closed whenautomatic vacuum assembly 1110 is in a retracted state. Preferably, door1122 is about fourteen inches wide by about fourteen inches tall. Uponreading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skillin the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference,etc., other arrangements, such as bifold doors, sliding doors, no door,a door partially above the waterline, a door large enough to insert andremove the automatic vacuum assembly, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, housing 1120 communicates to the pool deck surface throughsurface hatch 1124, as shown. Preferably, surface hatch 1124 is largeenough to permit access to automatic vacuum assembly 1110 for cleaningand repairs, as shown. More preferably, surface hatch 1124 is largeenough to permit automatic vacuum assembly 1110 to be convenientlyinserted into and removed from housing 1120, as shown. Upon reading theteachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the artwill now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, consideringsuch issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., otherarrangements, such as no surface hatch, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, housing 1120 is constructed while the pool is beingconstructed, by digging a sufficiently-sized hole, inserting concreteform 1126 positioned to connect with the interior of the pool, and thenfilling the remainder of the hole with concrete (preferably Gunite orShotcrete). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those withordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, userpreference, etc., other arrangements, such as retrofitting an existingpool, using other structural materials, not using a form, etc., maysuffice.

Preferably, vacuum pump 1130 is a central vacuum pump of the sortcommonly known in the art of swimming pools. Preferably, vacuum pump1130 connects to hydraulic system 1150 of automatic vacuum assembly1110, further described below.

Preferably, automatic vacuum assembly 1110 comprises vacuum hose 112,deployer 1114, reel 1116, and retractor 1118, as shown. Preferably,automatic vacuum assembly 1110 also comprises chassis 1111 and vacuumhead 113 (at least embodies herein wherein such at least one vacuum hosefurther comprises at least one vacuum cleaner adapted to provide atleast one vacuum cleaner, wherein such at least one vacuum cleaner isattached to such at least one first end of such at least one vacuumhose), as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, thosewith ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, underappropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances intechnology, user preference, etc., other components, such as timers,sensors, chemical adding equipment, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, vacuum hose 112 comprises a reinforced, two-inch diameterswimming pool vacuum hose of the sort known in the art of swimming poolmaintenance, as shown, such as those manufactured by Hayward PoolProducts, Inc., of Elizabeth, N.J., US. Preferably, vacuum hose 112 hasa laterally-ridged exterior surface. Preferably, vacuum hose 112 has afirst end 1202, preferably connected to vacuum head 113, as shown, and asecond end 1204, which is preferably secured inside reel 1116 and whichpreferably detachably connects to hydraulic system 1150 (as shown inFIG. 37). Preferably, vacuum hose 112 is wound onto reel 1116 (at leastembodying herein hose reel means for providing at least one hose reelfor such vacuum hose means; and at least embodying herein at least onehose reel adapted to provide at least one hose reel for such at leastone vacuum hose) for storage, as shown (at least embodying herein thestep of reeling at least one hose onto such at least one hose reel insuch at least one body of water; and at least embodying herein the stepof storing such at least one hose reel having such at least one hose insuch at least one body of water). Upon reading the teachings of thisspecification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understandthat, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues asadvances in technology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, suchas a stopper on the end of the vacuum hose to prevent the vacuum hosefrom retracting into the deployer when the vacuum cleaner is removed,other vacuum hose types, other vacuum hose diameters, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, reel 1116 comprises hub 1206, sides 1208, and axle 1210(shown in cross-section in FIG. 41). Preferably, axle 1210 connects tochassis 1111, as shown. Preferably, hub 1206 is two hose-widths wide, asshown in FIG. 41, and sides 1208 are tall enough to hold about sevenlengths of standard four-foot long vacuum hoses 112 (about 28 feet oftwo-inch diameter vacuum hose 112). Upon reading the teachings of thisspecification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understandthat, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues asadvances in technology, user preference, pool size, etc., otherarrangements, such as the reel being wide enough to hold threehose-widths, sized to hold ten hose-lengths, holding a length of hosesuited for a particular pool, a single-piece hose of the requiredlength, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, chassis 1111 supports the other components of automaticvacuum assembly 1110, as shown. Preferably, chassis 1111 comprisesaluminum bar stock, as shown.

Preferably, automatic vacuum assembly 1110 is constructed of materialsable to withstand prolonged submersion in pool water, such as, forexample, ozonated water, chlorinated water, or salt water. Preferredmaterials include aluminum, stainless steel, oxidation-resistantplastics such as, for example, Teflon and PVC, etc. Where multiple typesof metals are used, care should be taken to prevent galvanic corrosionreactions. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those withordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, userpreference, etc., other materials, such as other metals, other plastics,composite materials, coated materials, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, retractor 1118 (at least embodying herein hose retractormeans for retracting such vacuum hose means onto such hose reel means;and at least embodying herein at least one hose retractor adapted toretract such at least one vacuum hose onto such at least one hose reel;and at least embodying herein wherein such at least one hose retractorcomprises at least one automatic hose retractor adapted to automaticallyretract such at least one vacuum hose when such at least one vacuum pumpis turned off.) retracts vacuum hose 112 when vacuum hose 112 isreleased from deployer 1114 and is allowed to move freely. Preferably,retractor 1118 rotates reel 1116 counterclockwise to wind vacuum hose112 onto reel 1116, as shown. Preferably, retractor 1118 comprisesspring 1220, as shown, which is wound when vacuum hose 112 is deployedfrom reel 1116 (at least embodying herein wherein such step of reelingsuch at least one hose on to such at least one hose reel in such atleast one body of water further comprises the step of using at least onespring to reel such at least one hose on to such at least one hose reelin such at least one body of water). Preferably, spring 1220 comprises aconstant-force spring, as shown. Preferably, spring 1220 comprisesspring hub 1221, which is preferably attached to axle 1210, drum 1222,which is preferably attached to chassis 1111 by bracket 1223, and springband 1224, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, underappropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances intechnology, user preference, etc., other retractors, such as other typesof springs, motorized retractors, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, deployer 1114 (at least embodies herein hose deployer meansfor deploying such at least one first end of such vacuum hose means intothe at least one pool of water; and at least embodies herein at leastone hose deployer adapted to deploy such at least one first end of suchat least one vacuum hose into such at least one pool of water; and atleast embodies herein wherein such at least one hose deployer comprisesat least one automatic hose deployer adapted to automatically deploysuch at least one vacuum hose when such at least one vacuum pump isturned on; and at least embodies herein wherein such at least one vacuumpump simultaneously powers such at least one articulated carrier andsuch at least one hose deployer) comprises carriage 1230, deploymentbellows 1232, housing 1234, and drive system 1236, as shown. Preferably,deployer 1114 moves to deploy the first end 1202 of vacuum hose 112 intothe pool during vacuuming (at least embodying herein the step ofunreeling such at least one hose off of such at least one hose reel insuch at least one body of water), and retracts into housing 1120 forstorage, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, underappropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances intechnology, user preference, etc., other deployers, such as a motorizedreel, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, carriage 1230 (at least embodying herein wherein such atleast one hose deployer comprises at least one articulated carrieradapted to carry such at least one hose deployer from at least oneretracted position to at least one deployed position and vice versa)comprises four carriage bars 1231, which are each pivotally connected tohousing 1234 at one end, and to chassis 1111 at the other end, as shown.Preferably, carriage 1230 moves from the upright, retracted positionshown into a tilted, deployed position (as shown in FIG. 30) when pulledby deployment bellows 1232 (at least embodying herein wherein such atleast one vacuum pump powers such at least one articulated carrier; andat least embodies herein wherein such at least one hose deployercomprises at least one hydraulic actuator). Upon reading the teachingsof this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will nowunderstand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering suchissues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., otherarrangements, such as other numbers of carriage bars, other types ofcarriages, motorized carriage movement, other types of carriage movementsuch as sliding on rails, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, deployment bellows 1232 comprise one or more deploymentbellows 1232, as shown. Preferably, deployment bellows 1232 are attachedto carriage 1230 at one end, preferably with bracket 1233, and areattached to chassis 1111 at the other end, as shown. Preferably,deployment bellows 1232 are also attached to hydraulic system 1150,preferably near the end of deployment bellows 1232 attached to chassis1111, as shown. Preferably, when circulation pump 130 is turned on,hydraulic system 1150 pulls water out of deployment bellows 1232,compressing deployment bellows 1232, and pulling carriage 1230 forward(as shown in FIG. 30). Upon reading the teachings of this specification,those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, underappropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances intechnology, user preference, etc., other types of hydraulic actuators,such as other numbers of bellows, other shapes of bellows, otherdiameters of bellows, hydraulic pistons, hydraulic motors, etc., maysuffice.

Preferably, housing 1234 comprises two substantially flat, parallelmetal plates 1235, which preferably provide structural support for drivesystem 1236 and connection points for carriage 1230, as shown. Uponreading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skillin the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference,etc., other housings, such as an arrangement of bars, additionalenclosed sides, other shapes, other sizes, other materials, etc., maysuffice.

Preferably, drive system 1236 (at least embodies herein at least onedrive adapted to drive such at least one hose-moving wheel off of suchat least one hydraulic motor) comprises hydraulic motor 1240, drivewheels 1242, gears 1243, drive chain 1244, idle sprocket 1246, wheelpositioner bellows 1247, wheel positioner lever 1248, and wheelpositioner spring 1249, as shown.

Preferably, hydraulic motor 1240 (at least embodying herein wherein suchat least one hose deployer is powered by such at least one vacuum pump;and at least embodying herein at least one hydraulic motor adapted topower at least one motor with water moved by such at least one vacuumpump; and at least embodying herein wherein such at least one hosedeployer is powered by such at least one hydraulic motor; and at leastembodying herein at least one hydraulic motor adapted to provide atleast one hydraulic motor; and at least embodying herein wherein such atleast one hydraulic motor is powered by such at least one vacuum pump)comprises a vane-type hydraulic motor of the sort known in the art ofhydraulics. Preferably, circulation pump 130 draws water from insidehousing 1120 through hydraulic motor 1240, causing hydraulic motor 1240to turn and drive gears 1243.

Preferably, when vacuum pump 1130 is turned on, hydraulic motor 1240drives gears 1243, which in turn drive chain 1244, which turns drivewheels 1242, as shown (at least embodying herein wherein the step ofunreeling such at least one hose off of such at least one hose reel insuch at least one body of water further comprises the step of using atleast one hydraulic motor to unreel such at least one hose off of suchat least one hose reel in such at least one body of water). Preferablysimultaneously, hydraulic system 1150 pulls water out of wheelpositioner bellows 1247, pivoting wheel positioner lever 1248, andmoving drive wheels 1242 to engage vacuum hose 112 (as shown in FIG.30). Preferably, drive chain 1244 tension is maintained by idle sprocket1246, which is preferably tensioned by sprocket spring 1245, as shown(at least embodying herein further comprising at least one drivetensioner adapted to provide consistent tension to such at least onedrive chain). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, thosewith ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, underappropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances intechnology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, such as amotorized wheel positioner, other methods of engaging the drive wheelswith the vacuum hose, gears instead of a drive chain, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, when circulation pump 130 is turned on, hydraulic system1150 simultaneously powers hydraulic motor 1240, retracts wheelpositioner bellows 1247 (at least embodying herein wherein such at leastone wheel compressor is actuated by such at least one vacuum pump; andat least embodying herein wherein such at least one wheel tensioner istensioned by such at least one vacuum pump; and at least embodyingherein wherein such at least one hose deployer comprises at least onehydraulic actuator), and retracts deployment bellows 1232, therebyautomatically deploying automatic vacuum assembly 1110, as shown. Uponreading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skillin the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference,etc., other arrangements, such as timing these actions separately, etc.,may suffice.

Preferably, when drive wheels 1242 (at least embodying herein at leastone hose-moving wheel adapted to move such at least one vacuum hose; andat least embodying herein wherein such at least one hose-guiding wheelcomprises such at least one hose-moving wheel; and at least embodyingherein at least one hose-moving wheel adapted to move such at least onehose) are engaged with vacuum hose 112 and are turning, vacuum hose 112is pulled off reel 116, and is pushed out into the pool (as shown inFIG. 30). Preferably, this continues until vacuum hose 112 issubstantially entirely reeled off reel 1116, as shown.

Preferably, when vacuum hose 112 is fully deployed, hydraulic system1150 automatically switches circulation pump 130 suction from deployer1114 to vacuum hose 112, as shown, pulling water through vacuum hose112, preferably to be filtered and returned to the pool (at leastembodying herein the step of pulling at least one flow of water throughsuch at least one hose). Preferably, vacuum head 113 is connected to thefirst end 1202 of vacuum hose 112, and is deployed with vacuum hose 112,as shown. Preferably, vacuum head 113 is a vacuum-powered random-motionpool vacuum of the sort known in the art, such as, for example, theNavigator Automatic Pool Cleaner manufactured by Hayward Pool Products,Inc. Once deployed, vacuum head 113 preferably cleans the pool untilcirculation pump 130 is turned off. Upon reading the teachings of thisspecification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understandthat, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues asadvances in technology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, suchas no vacuum cleaner, a surface skimmer, wand vacuums, etc., maysuffice.

Preferably, when circulation pump 130 is turned off, automatic vacuumassembly 1110 automatically retracts, as shown. Preferably, whencirculation pump 130 is turned off, deployment bellows 1232 are releasedfrom suction and fill with water, permitting retraction spring 1252 (atleast embodying herein wherein such at least one hose retractorcomprises at least one spring adapted to wind such at least one hosereel) to pull carriage 1230 back into the upright, retracted position,as shown. Preferably simultaneously, wheel positioner bellows 1247 isreleased from suction and fills with water, permitting wheel positionerspring 1249 to pull wheel positioner lever 1248 (at least embodyingherein at least one wheel compressor adapted to compress such at leastone vacuum hose between such at least one hose-guiding wheel and such atleast one hose-moving wheel; and at least embodying herein at least onewheel tensioner adapted to tension such at least one hose between suchat least one hose-guiding wheel and such at least one hose-moving wheel)to disengage drive wheels 1242 from vacuum hose 112, as shown.Preferably, when vacuum hose 112 is released from drive wheels 1242,retractor 1118 rotates reel 1116 counterclockwise to wind vacuum hose112 onto reel 1116, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of thisspecification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understandthat, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues asadvances in technology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, suchas motorized retraction, timed sequences of retraction steps, etc., maysuffice.

FIG. 30 shows a side view of automatic vacuum assembly 1110 according toFIG. 29, in a deployed position. Preferably, when automatic vacuumassembly 1110 is deployed, vacuum head 113 is carried far enough awayfrom the wall of the pool that vacuum head 113 does not scrape againstthe side of the pool during deployment or retraction, as shown.

FIG. 31 shows a detail of the upper portion of automatic vacuum assembly1110 of FIG. 29. Preferably, housing 1234 supports one or more hoseguide wheels 1241, as shown, which guide vacuum hose 112, especiallyduring retraction (at least embodying herein at least one hose-guidingwheel adapted to guide such at least one vacuum hose; and at leastembodying herein at least one hose-guiding wheel adapted to guide atleast one hose). Retraction sensor 1300 is further shown and describedin FIGS. 34 and 35. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, underappropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances intechnology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, such as otherhose guides, other hose guide placements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 32 shows a rear view of deployer 1114 of FIG. 29. Preferably,housing 1234 comprises hose guide 1400, as shown, which is preferablyflared at the ends to prevent vacuum hose 112 from catching duringdeployment, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, underappropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances intechnology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, such as hoseguide wheels, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 33A shows a side view of a drive wheel 1242 of FIG. 29.

FIG. 33B shows an edge view of the drive wheel 1242 of FIG. 33A.Preferably, drive wheel 1242 has a v-shaped, ridged interior, as shown,adapted to grip and pull vacuum hose 112. Preferably, drive wheels 1242are molded of plastic, with metal axles. Upon reading the teachings ofthis specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will nowunderstand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering suchissues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., otherarrangements, such as pairs of wheels instead of v-shaped wheels, smoothwheels, other sizes of wheels, other wheel materials, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 34 shows a detail of the upper portion of automatic vacuum assembly110 according to FIG. 29, detailing retraction sensor 1300 (at leastembodying herein at least one retraction detector adapted to detect thecomplete retraction of such at least one vacuum hose onto such at leastone reel; and at least embodying herein wherein such at least onearticulated carrier is adapted to carry such at least one hose deployerfrom at least one deployed position to at least one retracted positionwhen such at least one retraction detector detects the completeretraction of such at least one vacuum hose onto such at least one reel)in a latched position, during vacuum hose 112 retraction. Preferably,retraction sensor 1300 comprises a system of levers 1605 connectingstopper 1610 with latch 1615, as shown. Preferably, when carriage 1230is in a deployed position, latch 1615 catches on block 1620, lockingcarriage 1230 in the deployed position, as shown. Upon reading theteachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the artwill now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, consideringsuch issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., othertypes of retraction sensors, such as electronic sensors, othermechanical sensors, other sensing criteria, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 35 shows a detail of the upper portion of automatic vacuum assembly1110 according to FIG. 29, detailing retraction sensor 1300 in anunlatched position, after vacuum hose 112 retraction. Preferably, whenvacuum hose 112 is fully retracted, vacuum head 113 bumps stopper 1610,moving levers 1605 and releasing latch 1615 from block 1620, as shown.Preferably, at this point in the retraction process, deployment bellows1232 has also been released from suction by hydraulic system 1150, andretraction spring 1252 pulls carriage 1230 into the retracted position,as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those withordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, userpreference, etc., other retraction sensors, such as electronic sensors,other mechanical sensors, other lever arrangements, other types oflatches, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 36 shows a diagram of hydraulic system 1150 according to apreferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, hydraulicsystem 1150 comprises automatic switch 1800, trunk hose 1805, bellowshoses 1810, hydraulic motor hose 1815, vacuum supply hose 1820, anddeployment sensor hose 1825, as shown. Preferably, automatic switch 1800automatically switches the vacuum provided by circulation pump 130 fromdeployer 1114 to vacuum hose 112 when vacuum hose 112 is fully deployed,as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those withordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, userpreference, etc., other automatic switches, such as electric valveswitches, other types of automatic switch valves, other hosearrangements, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, automatic switch 1800 (at least embodying herein at leastone automatic switch adapted to automatically switch such at least onevacuum pump from powering such at least one hose deployer to pullingwater through such at least one vacuum hose after such at least one hosedeployer deploys such at least one vacuum hose; and at least embodyingherein wherein such at least one hose deployer is powered by such atleast one vacuum pump prior to such at least one deployment detectordetecting the finished deployment of such at least one vacuum hose offof such at least one reel; and at least embodying herein wherein such atleast one vacuum pump pulls water through such at least one vacuum hoseafter such at least one deployment detector detects the finisheddeployment of such at least one vacuum hose from such at least one reel;and at least embodying herein at least one automatic switch adapted toautomatically switch such at least one vacuum pump from powering such atleast one hose deployer to pulling water through such at least onevacuum hose after such at least one deployment detector detects thefinished deployment of such at least one vacuum hose from such at leastone reel; and at least embodying herein at least one automatic switchadapted to automatically switch such at least one vacuum pump frompowering such at least one hose deployer to pulling water through suchat least one vacuum hose after such at least one spring-loaded switch isclosed) comprises switch bellows 1830, piston 1832, piston spring 1834,valves 1836, and chamber 1838, as shown. Preferably, two valves 1836 arespaced along piston 1832 in chamber 1838, and slidingly seal against thesides of chamber 1838, as shown. Preferably, piston 1832 with valves1836 is moved longitudinally within chamber 1838 by switch bellows 1830,as shown (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one automaticswitch comprises at least one hydraulic actuator). Upon reading theteachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the artwill now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, consideringsuch issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., otherarrangements, such as flapper valves, multiple valve bellows, electronicswitches, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, trunk hose 1805 connects to chamber 1838 between valves 1836at one end, and connects to circulation pump 130 at the other end, asshown. Preferably, hydraulic motor hose 1815 connects to chamber 1838 sothat hydraulic motor hose 1815 communicates with trunk hose 1805 whenswitch bellows 1830 is extended, as shown. Preferably, piston spring1834 acts to keep switch bellows 1830 extended, as shown. Preferably,vacuum supply hose 1820 connects to chamber 1838 so that vacuum supplyhose 1820 communicates with trunk hose 1805 when switch bellows 1830 iscompressed, as shown in hidden lines. Upon reading the teachings of thisspecification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understandthat, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues asadvances in technology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, suchas other hose routings, other numbers of hoses, other hose connections,etc., may suffice.

Preferably, bellows hoses 1810 are connected to trunk hose 805 so thatbellows hoses 1810 are under vacuum whenever circulation pump 130 is on,as shown. Preferably, bellows hoses 1810 connect to deployment bellows1232 and wheel positioner bellows 1247, so that deployment bellows 1232and wheel positioner bellows 1247 are under vacuum whenever circulationpump 130 is on, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of thisspecification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understandthat, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues asadvances in technology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, suchas latches to keep the bellows compressed during vacuuming, etc., maysuffice.

Preferably, deployment sensor hose 1825 is cross linked between trunkhose 1805 and switch bellows 1830, as shown, so that deployment sensorhose 1825 is under vacuum whenever circulation pump 130 is on.Preferably, deployment sensor hose 1825 is open to water at the far endwhen vacuum hose 112 is reeled on reel 1116, as shown in FIG. 37.Preferably, deployment sensor hose 1825 is closed at the far end whenvacuum hose 112 is substantially unreeled from reel 1116 (i.e., whenvacuum hose 112 is fully deployed), as shown in FIG. 39. Preferably,when deployment sensor hose 1825 is closed at the far end, suction isapplied to switch bellows 1830, compressing switch bellows 1830 andmoving valves 1836 so that vacuum supply hose 1820 communicates withtrunk hose 1805, as shown, so that pool vacuuming automatically begins(at least embodying herein wherein such step of automatically switchingfurther comprises the step of actuating at least one liquid-actuatedbellows). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those withordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, userpreference, etc., other arrangements, such as other types of deploymentsensors, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 37 shows a diagram of the state of hydraulic system 1150 duringvacuum hose 112 deployment, with sprung lever 1915 depressed.Preferably, automatic vacuum assembly 1110 comprises hose deploymentsensor 1900, as shown. Preferably, hose deployment sensor 1900 (at leastembodying herein at least one deployment detector adapted to detect thefinished deployment of such at least one vacuum hose off of such atleast one reel) comprises deployment sensor hose 1825, sensor hosestopper 1905, hose stopper spring 1910, sprung lever 1915, and sprungbar 1920, as shown. Preferably, sprung lever 1915 (at least embodyingherein at least one spring-loaded lever adapted to provide at least onespring-loaded lever on the interior of such at least one reel whereinsuch at least one spring-loaded lever is compressed when such at leastone vacuum hose presses such at least one spring-loaded lever; andwherein such at least one spring-loaded lever is released when such atleast one vacuum hose is removed from such at least one spring-loadedlever) lies across reel hub 1916, so that sprung lever 1915 iscompressed when vacuum hose 112 is wound around reel hub 1916 and oversprung lever 1915, as shown, and so that sprung lever 1915 is releasedinto an upward slanted position when vacuum hose 112 is wound off ofsprung lever 1915, as shown. Preferably, one end of sprung lever 1915 ishinged and sprung, and the other end of sprung lever 1915 is connectedto the lower end of sprung bar 1920, as shown, preferably through a slotin reel 1116, as shown.

Preferably, sprung bar 1920 is radially mounted on the outside of reel1116, as shown. Preferably, sprung bar 1920 is in a lowered positionwhen sprung lever 1915 is compressed, and is pulled into a raisedposition (away from reel hub 1916) by sprung lever 1915 and bar spring1921 when sprung lever 1915 is released (as shown in FIG. 38, and shownin cross-section in FIG. 42).

Preferably, when sprung bar 1920 (at least embodying herein at least onespring-loaded bar adapted to provide at least one spring-loaded bar onthe exterior of such at least one reel wherein such at least onespring-loaded bar is pulled into at least one retracted position whensuch at least one spring-loaded lever is compressed; and wherein such atleast one spring-loaded bar means is released into at least one extendedposition when such at least one spring-loaded lever is released) islowered, the top end of sprung bar 1920 does not touch sensor hosestopper 1905 as reel 1116 turns. Preferably, when sprung bar 1920 israised, the top end of sprung bar 1920 presses hose stopper 1905 (atleast embodying herein at least one spring-loaded switch adapted toprovide at least one spring-loaded switch wherein such at least onespring-loaded switch is open when such at least one spring-loaded bar ispulled into such at least one retracted position; and wherein such atleast one spring-loaded switch is closed when such at least onespring-loaded bar is released into such at least one extended positionand contacts such at least one spring-loaded switch) against the openend of deployment sensor hose 1825 as reel 1116 turns, sealing the endof deployment sensor hose 1825 (as shown in FIG. 39) and causing suctionto be applied to switch bellows 1830.

Preferably, when sprung bar 1920 presses hose stopper 1905 against theopen end of deployment sensor hose 1825, the rotation of reel 1116 isstopped at that point, as shown. Preferably, the second end 1204 ofvacuum hose 112 is connected to an opening 1950 in reel 1116 near axle1210, as shown. Preferably, vacuum supply hose 1820 is fixed to chassis1111, with the end of vacuum supply hose 1820 flush with the exterior ofreel 1116, as shown. Preferably, when sprung bar 1920 presses hosestopper 1905 against the open end of deployment sensor hose 1825 andreel 1116 is stopped in that position, the end of vacuum supply hose1820 aligns with opening 1950 which communicates with vacuum hose 112(as shown in FIG. 39), thereby connecting vacuum supply hose 1820 tovacuum hose 112, as shown (at least embodying herein further comprisingthe step of automatically switching such at least one vacuum pump frompulling water through such at least one hydraulic motor to pulling waterthrough such at least one vacuum hose after such at least one vacuumhose is unreeled from such at least one reel). Upon reading theteachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the artwill now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, consideringsuch issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., otherarrangements, such as a swivel joint inlet on the axle connecting thevacuum hose to the vacuum supply hose, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 38 shows a diagram of the state of hydraulic system 1150 duringvacuum hose 112 deployment, with sprung lever 1915 released.

FIG. 39 shows a diagram of the state of hydraulic system 1150 duringvacuuming.

FIG. 40 shows a cross-section through section 40-40 of FIG. 38.

FIG. 41 shows detail 41 of FIG. 40, exploded, with reel 1116 ommited toclearly show the workings of hose deployment sensor 1900. Preferably,sprung lever 1915 comprises bracket 2305, hinge 2307, spring 2310, lever2315, and arm 2320, as shown. Preferably, bracket 2305 connects lever2315 to reel 1116, through hinge 2307, as shown. Preferably, spring 2310holds lever 2315 up when lever 2315 is not compressed by vacuum hose112, as shown.

Preferably, sprung bar 1920 comprises bar 2330, bolt 2335, spacer 2340,bracket 2345, and spring 2350, as shown. Preferably, bar 2330 slidesfreely between spacer 2340 and bracket 2345, as shown. Preferably,spring 2350 connects at one end to bracket 2345, and at the other end tothe lower portion of bar 2330, so that spring 2350 pulls bar 2330 upward(away from reel hub 1916) when sprung lever 1915 is released, as shown.

Preferably, sprung lever 1915 is connected to bar 2330 by bolt 2335, asshown. Preferably, the bolt-hole in arm 2320 is loose, to accommodatevarious angles of intersection of arm 2320 and bolt 2335, as shown. Uponreading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skillin the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference,etc., other arrangements, such as hinged connections, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, hose stopper 1905 comprises bracket 2360, hinge 2365, lever2370, pad 2375, and spring 2380, as shown. Preferably, deployment sensorhose 1825 is supported by bracket 2390 and strap 2391, as shown.

Preferably, bracket 2360 is fixedly connected to chassis 1111, as shown,and is connected to lever 2370 by hinge 2365, as shown. Preferably,lever 2370 is held away from the end of deployment sensor hose 1825 byspring 2380, as shown. Preferably, pad 2375 is attached to the undersideof lever 2370, as shown. Preferably, pad 2375 comprises a resilient,water-resistant material able to seal against the end of deploymentsensor hose 1825 when lever 2370 is pressed down by sprung bar 1920.More preferably, pad 2375 comprises polyurethane foam. Upon reading theteachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the artwill now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, consideringsuch issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., otherarrangements, electronic sensors, electronic valve switches, other padmaterials, other types of deployment sensors, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 42 shows a rear view of the embodiment according to FIG. 29.Preferably, chamber 1838 is constructed from PVC pipe sections.Preferably, vacuum hose 1112 is attached to reel 1116 with a 90-degreePVC pipe fitting, as shown. Preferably, vacuum hose 1112 is attached toreel 1116 with a 90-degree PVC pipe fitting, as shown. Preferably,hydraulic motor hose 1815 is attached to hydraulic motor 1240 with a90-degree PVC pipe fitting, as shown. Preferably, vacuum supply hose1820 is attached to chassis 1111 adjacent reel 1116 with a 90-degree PVCpipe fitting, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of thisspecification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understandthat, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues asadvances in technology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, suchas other types of pipe fittings, custom parts manufactured, othermaterials, etc., may suffice.

In this preferred alternate embodiment, bellows hoses 1810 are connectedto chamber 1838 adjacent trunk hose 1805, as shown, instead of directlyto trunk hose 1805, as was shown in FIG. 36. This arrangement functionsin the same way as was described in FIG. 36.

FIG. 43 shows a side view of deployer 2514 according to anotherpreferred embodiment of the present invention, in a non-deploying state.Preferably, deployer 2514 comprises housing 2534 and drive system 2536,as shown.

Preferably, housing 2534 comprises two substantially flat, parallelmetal plates 2535, as shown, which preferably provide structural supportfor drive system 2536 and connection points for chassis 1111, as shown.Preferably, housing 2534 is fixedly connected to chassis 1111,preferably near door 1122. Therefore, in this preferred embodiment,deployment bellows 1232 and retraction sensor 1300 are not required.

Preferably, housing 2534 comprises hose guide 2537. Preferably, hoseguide 2537 is fixedly attached to chassis 1111. Upon reading theteachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the artwill now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, consideringsuch issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., otherarrangements, such as a hose guide that extends when the door is opened,a hose guide that extends when the hose is deployed, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, drive system 2536 comprises hydraulic motor 1240, drivewheel 1242, gears 2543, drive chain 2544, wheel positioner bellows 2547,wheel positioner lever 2548, and wheel positioner spring 2549, as shown.Vacuum supply hose 1815 is attached to hydraulic motor 1140, but is notshown.

FIG. 44 shows a side view of deployer 2514 according to FIG. 44, in adeploying state. Preferably, when circulation pump 130 is turned on,hydraulic motor 1240 drives gears 2543, which in turn drive chain 2544,which turns drive wheel 1242, as shown. Preferably simultaneously,hydraulic system 1150 pulls water out of wheel positioner bellows 2547,pivoting wheel positioner lever 2548, and moving drive wheel 1242 toengage vacuum hose 1112, as shown (at least embodying herein wherein thestep of using at least one hydraulic motor to unreel such at least onehose off of such at least one hose reel in such at least one body ofwater further comprises the step of using at least one vacuum pump topull water through such at least one hydraulic motor).

Preferably, when circulation pump 130 is turned off, wheel positionerspring 2549 pulls wheel positioner lever 2548 to disengage drive wheel1242 from vacuum hose 112, returning deployer 2514 to the state shown inFIG. 43, as shown.

Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments ofthis invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of thisinvention includes modifications such as diverse shapes, sizes, andmaterials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims as read inconnection with the above specification.

Further, many other advantages of applicant's invention will be apparentto those skilled in the art from the above descriptions and the belowclaims.

1) A system related to the uncoiled storage of at least one vacuum hoseof at least one automatic pool cleaner within at least one pool ofwater, the at least one vacuum hose comprising at least one first hoseend and at least one second hose end, the at least one pool of watercomprising at least one low-pressure fluid source, said systemcomprising: a) at least one tubular sleeve adapted to removably store atleast one substantial portion of the at least one vacuum hose; b)wherein said at least one tubular sleeve comprises at least one firstopen end in fluid communication with the at least one pool of water; andc) wherein said at least one tubular sleeve comprises an aggregate bendof less than three-hundred and sixty degrees. 2) The system according toclaim 1 wherein: a) said at least one tubular sleeve comprises anaggregate bend of less than one hundred and eighty degrees; and b) saidat least one tubular sleeve comprises no more than two ninety-degreebends. 3) The system according to claim 2 wherein: a) said at least onetubular sleeve comprises at least one second open end; b) said at leastone second open end is positioned substantially above at least onewaterline of such at least one pool of water; and c) said at least onesecond open end comprises at least one removable cover adapted toremovably cover said at least one second open end. 4) The systemaccording to claim 1 wherein said at least one tubular sleeve comprisesat least one plurality of interconnectable segments adapted to providesegmented assembly of said at least one tubular sleeve. 5) The systemaccording to claim 1 wherein said at least one tubular sleeve is adaptedto maintain the at least one substantial portion of the at least onevacuum hose submerged within the water from such at least one pool ofwater. 6) The system according to claim 1 further comprising at leastone fluid coupler adapted to couple the at least one second hose end ofthe at least one vacuum hose to the at least one low-pressure fluidsource. 7) The system according to claim 6 wherein said at least onefluid coupler comprises: a) at least one vacuum hose end fitting adaptedto removably engage the at least one second hose end of the at least onevacuum hose; and b) at least one docking receiver adapted to removablyreceive said at least one vacuum hose-end fitting; c) wherein said atleast one at least one docking receiver comprises at least one interiorchamber adapted to receive interiorly at least one portion of said atleast one vacuum hose end fitting and pass exteriorly the at least onevacuum hose; d) wherein said at least one vacuum hose end fittingcomprises at least one vacuum transfer port adapted to transfer fluidbetween the at least one vacuum hose and said at least one interiorchamber; e) wherein said at least one interior chamber comprises atleast one coupling to the at least one low-pressure fluid source; f)wherein said at least one interior chamber comprises at least onepressure seal adapted to form at least one pressure seal with said atleast one vacuum transfer port; and g) wherein said at least onepressure seal is adapted to form at least one pressure coupling tocouple operationally the at least one vacuum hose with the at least onelow-pressure fluid source. 8) The system according to claim 1 furthercomprising: a) at least one hose deployer adapted to deploy the at leastone first end of the at least one vacuum hose into such at least onepool of water; b) at least one fluid coupler adapted to couple the atleast one second end of the at least one vacuum hose to the at least onelow-pressure fluid source; and c) at least one hose retractor adapted toretract the at least one vacuum hose onto said at least one tubularsleeve; d) wherein said at least one tubular sleeve is adapted tomaintain the at least one substantial portion of the at least one vacuumhose submerged within the water of such at least one pool of water. 9)The system according to claim 8 wherein: a) said at least one hosedeployer comprises at least one hydraulic motor adapted to power thedeploying of the at least one first hose end of the at least one vacuumhose by said at least one hose deployer; b) said at least one hydraulicmotor is in fluid communication with the at least one low-pressure fluidsource; and c) said at least one hydraulic motor is adapted to operateby directing at least one movement of the water of the at least one poolof water toward the at least one low-pressure fluid source. 10) Thesystem according to claim 8 further comprising: a) at least one firsthousing adapted to house said at least one hose deployer, said at leastone fluid coupler, and said at least one hose retractor; and b) at leastone second housing comprising at least one hollow interior adapted tohouse said at least one first housing; c) wherein said at least onefirst housing is removable from said at least one hollow interior ofsaid at least one second housing; and d) wherein said at least onesecond housing is prepositionally fixed relative to the at least onepool of water. 11) The system according to claim 10 wherein said atleast one hollow interior comprises: a) at least one first passageadapted to provide fluid communication between said at least one hollowinterior and the at least one pool of water; and b) at least one secondpassage adapted to provide fluid communication between said at least onehollow interior and said at least one tubular sleeve; c) wherein said atleast one first passage comprises at least one door adapted to provideat least one closable and openable barrier between said at least onefirst passage and the least one pool of water; and d) wherein said atleast one door is positioned substantially below at least one waterlineof such at least one pool of water. 12) The system according to claim 9wherein: a) the at least one low-pressure fluid source comprises atleast one fluid circulation pump adapted to circulate the water of suchat least one pool of water; b) said at least one hose deployer comprisesat least one automatic hose deployer adapted to automatically deploy theat least one vacuum hose on activation of the at least one fluidcirculation pump; and c) said at least one hose retractor comprises atleast one automatic hose retractor adapted to automatically retract theat least one vacuum hose on deactivation of the at least one fluidcirculation pump. 13) The system according to claim 12 furthercomprising at least one automatic switch adapted to automatically switchthe coupling of the at least one low-pressure fluid source between saidat least one hydraulic motor and said at least one fluid coupler. 14)The system according to claim 12 wherein said at least one automatichose retractor comprises at least one spring tensioner adapted totension at least one retractor spring during deployment of the at leastone vacuum hose by said at least one automatic hose deployer. 15) Thesystem according to claim 14, further comprising: a) at least one hosedeployment detector adapted to signal the detection of a completeddeployment of the at least one vacuum hose into the at least one pool ofwater; and b) at least one spring tension detector adapted to signal thedetection of the completed tensioning of said at least one retractorspring by such deployment of the at least one vacuum hose by said atleast one automatic hose deployer; c) wherein said at least oneautomatic switch is adapted to maintain the coupling of the at least onelow-pressure fluid source to said at least one hydraulic motor in theabsence of such detection signals from either of said at least one hosedeployment detector and said at least one spring tension detector; andd) wherein said at least one automatic switch is adapted to switch thecoupling of the at least one low-pressure fluid source from said atleast one hydraulic motor to said at least one fluid coupler in thepresence of both such detection signals from said at least one hosedeployment detector and said at least one spring tension detector. 16)The system according to claim 15 wherein such detection signals compriseat least one change in fluid pressure. 17) The system according to claim16 wherein said at least one automatic switch comprises at least onepressure operated actuator adapted to actuate at least one fluidcontrolling valve. 18) The system according to claim 17 wherein said atleast one hose deployer comprises: a) at least one drive assemblycomprising at least one first hose-engaging wheel and at least onesecond hose-engaging wheel each one adapted to physically engage the atleast one vacuum hose; b) wherein, during such physical engagement, theat least one vacuum hose is movably deployed by rotation of said atleast one first hose-engaging wheel and said at least one secondhose-engaging wheel by said at least one hydraulic motor; and c)wherein, during such physical engagement, the at least one vacuum hoseis movably retracted by counter-rotation of said at least one firsthose-engaging wheel and said at least one second hose-engaging wheel bysaid at least one spring tensioner. 19) The system according to claim 18further comprising at least one limited-slip coupler adapted to providelimited-slip decoupling of at least one mechanical force transferredbetween said at least one hydraulic motor, said at least one springtensioner, and said at least one drive assembly. 20) The systemaccording to claim 18 further comprising such at least one vacuum hose.21) The system according to claim 18 further comprising such at leastone automatic pool cleaner. 22) The system according to claim 18 furthercomprising: a) at least one water level detector adapted to detect atleast one low water level condition within the at least one pool ofwater; b) wherein said at least one water level detector comprises atleast one automatic retraction initiator adapted to automaticallyinitiate the retraction of the at least one vacuum hose on suchdetection of such at least one low water level condition within the atleast one pool of water. 23) The system according to claim 22 whereinsaid at least one automatic retraction initiator comprises at least onemanual actuator adapted to provide manual actuation of said at least oneautomatic retraction initiator. 24) A pool cleaning system, comprisingthe steps of: a) coupling at least one submerged tubular sleeve to atleast one body of water; b) placing at least one portion of at least onevacuum hose onto such at least one submerged tubular sleeve; c)deploying such at least one vacuum hose from such at least one submergedtubular sleeve into such at least one body of water; and d) couplingsuch at least one vacuum hose to at least one vacuum source. 25) Thepool cleaning system, according to claim 24, wherein the step ofdeploying such at least one vacuum hose from such at least one submergedtubular sleeve into such at least one body of water further comprisesthe step of using at least one hydraulic motor to induce suchdeployment. 26) The pool cleaning system, according to claim 25 furthercomprising the step of retracting such at least one portion of such atleast one vacuum hose from such at least one body of water into such atleast one submerged tubular sleeve. 27) The cleaning system, accordingto claim 26, wherein such the step of retracting such at least onevacuum hose from such at least one body of water into such at least onesubmerged tubular sleeve further comprises the step of using at leastone spring to induce such retraction. 28) The cleaning system, accordingto claim 27, further comprising the step of pulling at least one flow ofwater through such at least one vacuum hose. 29) A cleaning system,relating to the cleaning of at least one pool of water by at least oneautomatic vacuum, the at least one pool of water having at least onewaterline, said system comprising: a) at least one vacuum hose having atleast one first end and at least one second end; b) at least one vacuumpump, wherein said at least one vacuum pump is operationally coupled tosaid at least one second end of said at least one vacuum hose; c) atleast one hose reel adapted to reel said at least one vacuum hose; d) atleast one hose deployer adapted to deploy said at least one first end ofsaid at least one vacuum hose into such at least one pool of water; ande) at least one hose retractor adapted to retract said at least onevacuum hose onto said at least one hose reel; f) wherein said at leastone vacuum hose is adapted to remain continuously full of water whenretracted onto said at least one hose reel; g) wherein said at least onehose deployer comprises at least one hydraulic actuator; and h) said atleast one hydraulic actuator actuates by vacuum fluid pressure. 30) Thecleaning system according to claim 29 further comprising: a) at leastone housing adapted to house said at least one vacuum hose, on said atleast one hose reel, below such at least one waterline of such at leastone pool of water; b) wherein said at least one housing comprises atleast one door adapted to provide at least one exit from said at leastone housing into such at least one pool of water; and c) wherein said atleast one door is located substantially below such at least onewaterline of such at least one pool of water. 31) The cleaning systemaccording to claim 30 wherein: a) said at least one vacuum hose furthercomprises at least one vacuum cleaner; and b) said at least one vacuumcleaner is operationally coupled to said at least one first end of saidat least one vacuum hose; and c) said at least one vacuum hose and saidat least one vacuum cleaner are positioned entirely within said at leastone housing when said at least one vacuum hose is retracted for storage.32) The cleaning system according to claim 29 wherein: a) said at leastone hose deployer comprises at least one automatic hose deployer adaptedto automatically deploy said at least one vacuum hose when said at leastone vacuum pump is activated; and b) said at least one hose retractorcomprises at least one automatic hose retractor adapted to automaticallyretract said at least one vacuum hose when said at least one vacuum pumpis deactivated. 33) The cleaning system according to claim 29 whereinsaid at least one hose deployer is powered by said at least one vacuumpump. 34) The cleaning system according to claim 34 further comprisingat least one automatic switch adapted to automatically switch said atleast one vacuum pump from powering said at least one hose deployer topulling water through said at least one vacuum hose after said at leastone hose deployer deploys said at least one vacuum hose. 35) Thecleaning system according to claim 29 further comprising at least onehydraulic motor adapted to at least one rotational force from watermoved by said at least one vacuum pump. 36) The cleaning systemaccording to claim 35 wherein said at least one hose deployer is poweredby said at least one hydraulic motor. 37) The cleaning system accordingto claim 29 wherein said at least one hose retractor comprises at leastone spring adapted to wind said at least one hose reel. 38) The cleaningsystem according to claim 29 wherein said at least one hose deployercomprises at least one articulated carrier adapted to carry said atleast one hose deployer from at least one retracted position to at leastone deployed position and from at least one deployed position to atleast one retracted position. 39) The cleaning system according to claim38 further comprising at least one retraction detector adapted to detectthe complete retraction of said at least one vacuum hose onto said atleast one reel. 40) The cleaning system according to claim 29 furthercomprising at least one deployment detector adapted to detect thefinished deployment of said at least one vacuum hose from said at leastone reel. 41) The cleaning system according to claim 40 wherein said atleast one hose deployer is powered by said at least one vacuum pumpprior to said at least one deployment detector detecting the finisheddeployment of said at least one vacuum hose from said at least one reel.42) The cleaning system according to claim 40 wherein said at least onevacuum pump pulls water through said at least one vacuum hose after saidat least one deployment detector detects the finished deployment of saidat least one vacuum hose from said at least one reel. 43) The cleaningsystem according to claim 40 further comprising at least one automaticswitch adapted to automatically switch said at least one vacuum pumpfrom powering said at least one hose deployer to pulling water throughsaid at least one vacuum hose after said at least one deploymentdetector detects the finished deployment of said at least one vacuumhose from said at least one reel. 44) The cleaning system according toclaim 43 wherein said at least one automatic switch comprises at leastone hydraulic actuator. 45) The cleaning system according to claim 40wherein said at least one deployment detector comprises: a) at least onespring-loaded lever adapted to provide at least one spring-loaded leveron the interior of said at least one hose reel i) wherein said at leastone spring-loaded lever is compressed when said at least one vacuum hosepresses said at least one spring-loaded lever; and ii) wherein said atleast one spring-loaded lever is released when said at least one vacuumhose is removed from said at least one spring-loaded lever; b) at leastone spring-loaded bar adapted to provide at least one spring-loaded baron the exterior of said at least one hose reel i) wherein said at leastone spring-loaded bar is pulled into at least one retracted positionwhen said at least one spring-loaded lever is compressed; and ii)wherein said at least one spring-loaded bar means is released into atleast one extended position when said at least one spring-loaded leveris released; c) at least one spring-loaded switch i) wherein said atleast one spring-loaded switch is open when said at least onespring-loaded bar is pulled into such at least one retracted position;and ii) wherein said at least one spring-loaded switch is closed whensaid at least one spring-loaded bar is released into such at least oneextended position and contacts said at least one spring-loaded switch.46) The cleaning system according to claim 29 wherein said at least onehose deployer comprises: a) at least one hydraulic motor; b) whereinsaid at least one hydraulic motor is powered by said at least one vacuumpump; c) at least one hose-guiding wheel adapted to guide said at leastone vacuum hose; d) at least one hose-moving wheel adapted to move saidat least one vacuum hose; e) at least one wheel compressor adapted tocompress said at least one vacuum hose between said at least onehose-guiding wheel and said at least one hose-moving wheel; f) whereinsaid at least one wheel compressor is actuated by said at least onevacuum pump; and g) at least one drive adapted to drive said at leastone hose-moving wheel off of said at least one hydraulic motor; h)whereby, when said at least one vacuum pump is turned on, said at leastone vacuum hose is laterally compressed and is rolled longitudinallybetween said at least one hose-guiding wheel and said at least onehose-moving wheel. 47) The cleaning system according to claim 46wherein: a) said at least one drive comprises at least one drive chain;and b) at least one drive tensioner adapted to provide consistenttension to said at least one drive chain. 48) The cleaning systemaccording to claim 46 wherein said at least one hose-guiding wheelcomprises said at least one hose-moving wheel. 49) A system, comprising:a) at least one vacuum pump; b) at least one hydraulic motor; c) whereinsaid at least one hydraulic motor is powered by said at least one vacuumpump; d) at least one hose-guiding wheel adapted to guide at least onehose; e) at least one hose-moving wheel adapted to move such at leastone hose; f) at least one wheel tensioner adapted to tension such atleast one hose between said at least one hose-guiding wheel and said atleast one hose-moving wheel; g) wherein said at least one wheeltensioner is tensioned by said at least one vacuum pump; and h) at leastone drive adapted to drive said at least one hose-moving wheel off ofsaid at least one hydraulic motor; i) whereby, when said at least onevacuum pump is turned on, such at least one hose is laterally compressedand is rolled longitudinally between said at least one hose-guidingwheel and said at least one hose-moving wheel. 50) A cleaning system,comprising the steps of: a) storing at least one hose reel in at leastone body of water; b) reeling at least one hose onto such at least onehose reel in such at least one body of water; c) storing such at leastone hose reel having such at least one hose in such at least one body ofwater; and d) unreeling such at least one hose off of such at least onehose reel in such at least one body of water; e) wherein such at leastone hose is kept constantly filled with water; f) wherein the step ofunreeling such at least one hose off of such at least one hose reel insuch at least one body of water further comprises the step of using atleast one hydraulic motor to unreel such at least one hose off of suchat least one hose reel in such at least one body of water; g) whereinthe step of using at least one hydraulic motor to unreel such at leastone hose off of such at least one hose reel in such at least one body ofwater further comprises the step of using at least one vacuum pump topull water through such at least one hydraulic motor; h) switching suchat least one vacuum pump from pulling water through such at least onehydraulic motor to pulling water through such at least one vacuum hoseafter such at least one vacuum hose is unreeled from such at least onereel; i) wherein such step of automatically switching further comprisesthe step of actuating at least one hydraulic actuator; j) wherein suchstep of reeling such at least one hose on to such at least one hose reelin such at least one body of water further comprises the step of usingat least one spring to reel such at least one hose on to such at leastone hose reel in such at least one body of water; and k) pulling atleast one flow of water through such at least one hose.